Coronavirus Information

College of Southern Idaho Blaine County Center courses will begin August 24, but now is the time to register. Due to Covid-19 the Center is scheduling appointments in-person and virtually for new and returning students who would like more information or need assistance. Individuals interested in taking classes this fall are encouraged to begin the registration process by booking an appointment at https://www.csi.edu/blaine/default.aspx or calling 208-788-2033.

The Center specializes in providing higher education and lifelong learning to the communities of Hailey, Ketchum, Bellevue, Carey and Sun Valley. Students can work toward an associate’s degree and prepare to transfer to a four-year institution through a wide range of academic course offerings. The Center also provides access to business office, financial aid, advising, admissions, registration, proctored testing and other CSI services through its one-stop center.

For more information about the CSI Blaine County Center, located at 1050 Fox Acres Road in Hailey, Idaho visit: https://www.csi.edu/blaine/default.aspx.

Mientras se preparan para comenzar sus clases de otoño, se preguntarán cómo será el semestre aquí en CSI a la luz de la pandemia. Por favor, sepan que hemos estado trabajando duro para establecer protocolos y procedimientos para mantenerlos a ustedes, a sus compañeros de estudio y a los empleados del CSI seguros, mientras continuamos brindando una educación de alta calidad. Nos comprometemos a ofrecer una variedad de opciones de cursos, incluyendo conferencias y laboratorios en vivo, cursos híbridos que combinan la entrega en línea y en vivo, y cursos impartidos completamente en línea. La mitigación de riesgos sigue siendo una prioridad máxima para CSI y hemos tenido en cuenta muchas variables al desarrollar la siguiente guía para mantener nuestra comunidad universitaria acogedora, atractiva y segura.

Coberturas Faciales (o Máscara de Cara)

Los protocolos actuales en el campus establecen que se requieren coberturas faciales cuando el distanciamiento físico no es práctico o posible cuando se está en el interior. También es una señal de respeto por la salud de los demás, sin importar dónde estemos. Los estudiantes que necesiten acomodaciones especiales por razones médicas para ser excusados de usar un cubrimiento facial, deben contactar a la oficina  de  Servicios de Discapacidad para Estudiantes de CSI https://www.csi.edu/disability-services y proporcionar la documentación apropiada de un proveedor médico calificado.

Clases y Sala de Clases

Como ya se ha dicho, en las aulas y en los laboratorios en los que existe la posibilidad de que el distanciamiento no sea posible o práctico, se requerirán coberturas faciales, tanto por parte de los profesores como de los estudiantes. Sólo se harán excepciones debido a condiciones médicas. Se está dando a los profesores una enorme flexibilidad en cuanto a la mejor manera de impartir sus cursos, pero manteniendo la seguridad de todos. Esto podría incluir la división de las clases, el uso de métodos de entrega en vivo a distancia, o reunirse físicamente por períodos más cortos, o incluso, ocasionalmente reunirse al aire libre. También se les indica que trabajen con los estudiantes directamente para determinar las necesidades específicas de cada clase. Como consecuencia, esperamos algún grado de variación con respecto a las tradicionales clases presenciales programadas. Proporcionaremos actualizaciones regulares entre este mensaje y el 24 de agosto cuando comiencen las clases. Estamos sujetos a las condiciones e instrucciones de salud del distrito y nos ajustaremos según sea necesario, pero prometemos mantener la adherencia lo más cercana posible al tipo de curso, cursos o programas en los que esté inscrito.

Tecnología

Se recomienda que traiga una computadora portátil u otra computadora con una cámara web y un micrófono. La conexión a Internet en el campus está ampliamente disponible. Si no tiene una computadora portátil u otra computadora, hay algunas disponibles para pedir prestadas. Si estás pensando en comprar una computadora, IT ha creado una guía de especificaciones recomendadas para las computadoras que puedes encontrar aquí: https://www.csi.edu/information-technology/computer-specs.aspx. El acceso a Internet y a la tecnología mencionada anteriormente es esencial para la mayoría de las clases en el colegio CSI. CSI tiene muchos laboratorios de computación para estudiantes en todo el campus y la Unión de Estudiantes está abierta los 7 días de la semana de 7:00 a.m.-12:00 a.m., de Lunes a Viernes, 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m., Sábados y Domingos, ofreciendo Wi-fi, computadoras e impresoras.

CSI utiliza tres plataformas principales para los cursos en línea y la entrega a distancia, y éstas pueden aplicarse a cualquier curso del programa en caso de necesidad:

1) Sistema de gestión de aprendizaje Canvas-https://www.csi.edu/canvas/default.aspx. Canvas es nuestro sistema basado en la web para la entrega del contenido de los cursos en línea, incluyendo los planes de estudio, asignaciones, discusiones y otras interacciones.

2) Zoom. Zoom es un estándar aceptado para la videoconferencia, por lo que puede utilizarse para participar en sesiones de clase en vivo a distancia. En algunos casos, se pueden alternar días en el campus y días usando el zoom. Es importante que tenga un acceso fiable a Internet y dispositivos para usar el Zoom, pero podemos ayudarle con eso si necesita asistencia.

3) Sistema de telecomunicaciones CSI. CSI tiene un sistema de entrega de clases remotas que interactúan en múltiples sitios, incluyendo el campus principal y los centros fuera del campus, usando video en vivo de las clases.

Se pueden emplear otros métodos. Si necesita asistencia en cualquier momento, puede ponerse en contacto con el equipo de soporte técnico de CSI enviando un correo electrónico a helpdesk@csi.edu.

Biblioteca

La biblioteca de CSI seguirá estando a disposición de los estudiantes que deseen utilizar algunas de las salas de estudio más pequeñas o acceder a Internet de otra manera mientras estén en el campus. Por supuesto, también estará disponible para el acceso a libros, revistas y otros recursos tradicionales de la biblioteca. El servicio de entrega y recogida de libros en la acera también estará disponible durante el semestre de otoño.

Vida en la residencia/Vida en el campus

Para los que viven en las viviendas del campus, estamos tomando medidas para promover el distanciamiento social y los hábitos saludables. Si es necesario, también hemos reservado espacios para que se aíslen los estudiantes residenciales que muestren síntomas de enfermedad o que puedan dar positivo en el coronavirus. Para los estudiantes que necesiten aislarse, se entregarán comidas. Los planes de traslado de la residencia se comunicarán por teléfono y por carta de la Oficina de Vivienda.

El Consejo del Programa y el personal de Actividades Estudiantiles están creando programas que seguirán siendo emocionantes y entretenidos, mientras se asegura que el distanciamiento social y otras medidas de precaución puedan ser implementadas.

Salud e Higiene

Los animamos a que visiten https://www.csi.edu/coronavirus para obtener la información más actualizada sobre la respuesta del campus al virus. En la entrada de cada edificio, tendremos estaciones de desinfección de manos y los animamos a usarlas. También animamos a toda la comunidad del campus a que esté atenta al lavado de manos y a que se quede en casa si tiene signos o síntomas de enfermedad. Esto es extremadamente importante, y se ha ordenado a todo el profesorado que proporcione políticas de asistencia no punitiva, así como que prevean la participación a distancia en sus cursos si es necesario. Los estudiantes que muestren síntomas pueden recibir la prueba COVID a través de la colaboración de CSI con Physicians Immediate Care Center, 243 Cheney Dr. W #200, Twin Falls. Por favor contacte a la clínica al teléfono (208) 736-7422 o https://picctf.com/ 

Comunicación

Ahora más que nunca, es importante revisar su correo electrónico de CSI y monitorear el sitio web del Colegio. Los instructores de tus cursos se comunicarán contigo a medida que se acerque el semestre para informarte sobre las instrucciones específicas relacionadas con tus clases, sobre la tecnología que necesitarás para acceder a tus clases y sobre otra información que necesitarás para tener éxito en tus clases de otoño. Continuaremos proporcionando actualizaciones sobre los protocolos de coronavirus (https://www.csi.edu/coronavirus/) en nuestro sitio web también. El próximo año académico será único en casi todos los sentidos. Cada uno de nosotros debe hacer su parte para cuidar de sí mismo y de los demás. Esto requerirá flexibilidad en circunstancias rápidamente cambiantes, adoptando nuevas normas y adhiriéndose a los requisitos de salud pública que limitarán la propagación del Coronavirus. Esta responsabilidad compartida nos permitirá volver a un campus donde todos los miembros de la comunidad CSI puedan prosperar.

Si tiene alguna pregunta o preocupación, por favor no dude en contactar a la oficina de Asuntos Estudiantiles al teléfono 208-732-6224 o por correo electrónico a Eagles@csi.edu. ¡Esperamos verlos en Agosto!

CSI Students, as you prepare to begin your fall classes, you may be wondering what the semester might look like here at CSI, in light of the pandemic. Please know we have been working hard to establish protocols and procedures to keep you, your fellow students and CSI employees safe while continuing to deliver high quality education. We are committed to offer a variety of course delivery options including live lectures and labs, hybrid courses that blend online and live delivery, and courses taught completely online. Risk mitigation remains a top priority for CSI and we have considered many variables as we developed the following guidance to keep our campus community welcoming, engaging and safe.  

Face Coverings

Current protocols on campus state that facial coverings are required when physical distancing is not practical or possible when indoors. It is also a sign of respect for the health of others, no matter where we happen to be. Students requiring a medically-based accommodation to be excused from wearing a face covering should contact CSI’s Student Disability Services (https://www.csi.edu/disability-services/) and provide appropriate documentation from a qualified medical provider. 

Classes and Classrooms

As stated above, in classrooms and labs where there is potential that distancing isn’t possible or practical, facial coverings will be required by both faculty and students. Exceptions will only be made due to medical conditions. Faculty are being afforded tremendous flexibility in terms of how best to deliver their courses, but to maintain the safety of everyone. This might include dividing up the classes, using distance live delivery methods, or meeting physically for shorter periods, or even occasionally meeting outdoors. They are also directed to work with students directly to determine the specific needs of each class. As a consequence, we expect some degree of variance from traditional, scheduled face-to-face classes. We will provide regular updates between this message and August 24 when classes begin. We are subject to district health conditions and directions and will adjust as necessary, but we promise to maintain adherence as closely as possible to the type of course, courses, or programs in which you are registered.

Technology 

You are encouraged to bring a laptop or other computer with a webcam and microphone. Internet connectivity on campus is widely available. If you do not have a laptop or other computer, there are some available for checkout.  If you are considering buying a computer, IT has created a guide for recommended computer specifications, which can be found here: https://www.csi.edu/information-technology/computer-specs.aspx. Access to the internet and to the aforementioned technology is essential for most classes at CSI. CSI has many student computer labs throughout campus and the Student Union is open 7 days a week, 7 a.m. - 12 a.m., Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, offering wi-fi, computers, and printers.  

CSI utilizes three primary platforms for online courses and distance delivery, and these may be applied to any course in the schedule should the need arise:

1. Canvas learning management system (https://www.csi.edu/canvas/default.aspx). Canvas is our web-based system for delivering course content online, including syllabi, assignments, discussions, and other interactions.
2. Zoom. Zoom is an accepted standard for video conferencing so it may be used to participate in live class sessions remotely. In some cases, you may alternate days on campus and days using zoom. It’s important that you have reliable Internet access and devices to use Zoom, but we can help with that if you need assistance.
3. CSI Telecommunications system. CSI has a delivery system for remote classes that interact in multiple sites including the main campus and off-campus centers using live video feeds of classrooms.

Other methods may be employed. If you require assistance at any time, you can contact the CSI tech support team by emailing helpdesk@csi.edu.

Library

The CSI Library will remain available to students who wish to use some of the smaller study rooms or otherwise access the internet while on campus. Of course, it will also be available for access to books, journals, and other traditional library resources.  Curbside drop off and pick up will also be available throughout the fall semester.  

Residence Life/Campus Life

For those who live in campus housing, we are taking steps to promote social distancing and healthy habits. If needed, we have also set aside spaces for residential students who show symptoms of illness or who may test positive for the coronavirus to isolate. For students who need to isolate, meals will be delivered. Residence hall move in plans will be communicated via phone call and letter from the Housing Office.     

Program Board and the staff in Student Activities are creating programs that will still be exciting and entertaining while ensuring social distancing and other cautionary measures can be implemented.  

Health and Hygiene 

We encourage you to check out https://www.csi.edu/coronavirus for the most up to date information regarding the campus response to the virus. At the entrance of each building, we will have hand sanitizer stations and encourage you to use them. We also encourage the entire campus community to be vigilant about handwashing and staying home if they have signs or symptoms of illness. This is extremely important, and all faculty have been directed to provide non-punitive attendance policies as well as making provision for distance participation in your courses if necessary. Students exhibiting symptoms can receive COVID testing though CSI’s partnership with Physicians Immediate Care Center, 243 Cheney Dr W #200, Twin Falls. Please contact the clinic at (208) 736-7422 or https://picctf.com/.

Communication

Now more than ever, it is important to check your CSI email and to monitor the College’s website. Your course instructors will correspond with you as the semester draws near about specific instructions related to your classes, technology you’ll need, and other information so you can be successful this fall. We’ll continue to provide updates about coronavirus protocols on our website at https://www.csi.edu/coronavirus/ as well.

The upcoming academic year will be unique in nearly every sense. Each of us must do our part to take care of ourselves and one another. This will require flexibility in rapidly changing circumstances, adapting to new norms, and adhering to public health requirements that will limit the spread of the Coronavirus. This shared responsibility will allow for us to return to a campus where all CSI community members can thrive.  

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact Student Affairs at 208-732-6224 or eagles@csi.edu. We look forward to seeing you in August! 

The College of Southern Idaho welcomes its students back to campus this fall to a blend of face-to-face, online, and hybrid courses across all educational areas. These courses and programs are designed to keep students safe and on track to reach their academic and personal goals.  In order to accomplish these goals, there will need to be some modifications to ensure the safety of students and faculty.  

In response to COVID-19, buildings have been adjusted to bring in more than the minimum required fresh outside air. Filters are replaced on a regular schedule which varies depending on the type of system and type of building occupancy. We are upgrading to filters that will capture 80%-90% of particles in the air. Viruses are too small to be captured by filters, but the filters capture particles and water droplets that harbor viruses.

In addition to concerted efforts to clean classroom environments, CSI is also approaching the safety of spaces with attention to behavioral change. Students and instructors will be required to stay home when sick and attendance policies and procedures will support this effort. In addition, instructional techniques that encourage close spacing (group work, community service, etc.) will be modified. Instructors will engage in actions that deliberately maximize physical distancing (releasing students from classrooms at staggered times, avoiding late release of students, avoiding close testing, seating arrangements, etc.) and be prepared to respond to the safety concerns of individual students as needed.   

• Specifically,Facial coverings (masks or cloth coverings) are required of everyone on all CSI campuses, specifically facial coverings in classrooms are mandatory for students and faculty. The guidance from public health experts is clear: even homemade cloth masks can help fight the spread of COVID-19. Facial wear is available at the CSI Bookstore and students are expected to arrive at class with coverings.  
• Faculty may require students to follow additional safety procedures and use additional personal protection gear as necessary, especially in educational circumstances where hands-on instruction is required.  With approvals from the department chair, faculty can implement additional protective requirements when appropriate. 
• Faculty and students with concerns about specific conditions that may affect their ability or willingness to wear face coverings in classrooms may take advantage of alternative remote or online class sections where available and offered. As always, if a reasonable accommodation for a disability is requested, please contact Student Disability Services or Human Resources.
• Recognizing that different programs and courses will have different needs, it is our instructional philosophy to give instructors as much flexibility as possible in creating a safe environment for learning and teaching. Faculty should design and conduct their instruction to allow for physical distancing (which prioritizes 6-foot physical distancing). Faculty should also design and conduct instruction to allow students to learn while ill or quarantined. See COVID-19 Attendance Document for details. Working with department chairs, faculty should make decisions appropriate to their disciplines, but consistent always with physical distancing requirements. Instructional activities that cannot accommodate physical distancing must be approved by department chairs. Instructional approaches that support physical distancing may include but are not limited to:
  • Using online modalities (synchronous or asynchronous) to reduce exposure and transmission risk by moderating the numbers of students on campus at any given time. Instructors should work with department chairs and deans if possible, to move courses online and still maintain instructional excellence.
  • A hybrid design, where some of the content is delivered online while maintaining a reduced presence on campus or centers.
  • Hyflex scheduling, which rotates students between campus/centers and online to increase physical distancing. For example, a class of 40 students could be split into two cohorts and each cohort could be scheduled to participation in face-to-face and online broadcasts of the face-to-face class on an alternating basis.
  • At the request of South Central District Health, faculty should have seating charts and take attendance in classes with regular face-to-face requirements in order to support contact tracing efforts if necessary.
• When modality changes completely (from face-to-face to online), department chairs will need to work with IAA (Kara McCurdy) to change sections. Kara will build new sections and students will be automatically moved to the new course and then notified of the change by the Records Office.  
• Students will be notified by August 1^st of any changes to course modality.  
• Face-to-face and virtual tutoring services are available.
• Faculty should utilize alternative testing methods and/or remote test proctoring. In order to minimize crowded testing environments and ensure students can complete assessments while maintaining physical distancing, proctored testing in CSI testing centers will be limited in the fall of 2020. To use a CSI testing facility, instructors must contact Testing Center Coordinator, Jeff Gourley, for permission. Some testing facilities may be unavailable. Do not assume traditional proctor locations are available for students. Alternative assessment methods are encouraged.
• Faculty and students should be especially aware of high touch instructional areas such as computer labs. You are always encouraged to clean spaces before and after using. In the case of computer labs, feel free to wipe down keyboards and mice with disinfecting wipes. Computer monitors, TV screens, and other electronic displays are highly sensitive to cleaning products, the use of which can result in permanent and irreparable damage. Avoid using cleaning products, especially liquefied products or sprays, on these items. These items will be cleaned by campus staff appropriately. Because of the difficulty in obtaining cleaning supplies, cleaning products for instructional spaces will be stored with each building’s office specialists and not kept in each classroom.
• Please treat everyone with respect and kindness recognizing that everyone is doing the best they can in extraordinary circumstances.
• It is always expected that students and faculty abide by these safety standards. Student violations of these policies should be considered student conduct issues and follow the same path for resolution (student discussion, warning, Maxient, Security, etc.). Faculty violations of these policies should be considered HR issues and follow this path for resolution.

Please note that the actions of the College will be based on whatever is deemed most appropriate given current health risks as assessed by state and local government entities and the South-Central Health District. It is possible that there could be a significant return of the virus or other condition that would warrant a more dramatic approach to completion of the fall semester, including a return to complete online or other distance instructional methods. We are significantly enhancing the availability of computing technology for checkout by students should this be necessary.

The College of Southern Idaho was notified today that an individual who was on the main CSI campus in Twin Falls on June 15^th and 16^th has tested positive for coronavirus (COVID-19). This individual was specifically in room 234 of the Meyerhoeffer building, but has not been on campus since June 16, 2020. SCPHD will contact you with further instruction if you were named as a close contact by this individual (or anyone who has tested positive and is being investigated). Until you are contacted by SCPHD please self-monitor for the next 14 days.

Please continue to follow Governor Little’s Rebound Idaho guidance, plus CDC and SCPHD guidelines. If you or a family member currently have a cough, fever, shortness of breath, or other cold/flu-like symptoms please stay home. Please call your provider if you cannot manage your symptoms at home or if you are considered high-risk because of your age or underlying medical conditions. Testing can also be arranged through your provider’s office. Those with symptoms should alert close contacts (e.g., family members) of potential exposure to the virus.

Although transmission from asymptomatic people has been documented, people are most infectious when they are sick. If you do not have symptoms, there is little risk of making others sick. People who are sick should stay isolated for at least seven days from symptom onset AND three days with no symptoms (the three days can be within the seven days). Close contacts of sick people should remain isolated for 14 days from their last day of exposure. If you test positive for COVID-19, please alert CSI Human Resources immediately at hr@csi.edu or 208-732-6271.

For general coronavirus questions, please call the SCPHD hotline at (208) 737-1138. SCPHD reminds everyone to follow the recommended guidelines to help stop the spread of coronavirus. These include keeping six feet between yourself and others, stay home as much as possible, avoid all social gatherings, avoid non-essential travel, and cancel visits to nursing homes, hospitals, or locations where high-risk individuals might live. Please visit www.phd5.idaho.gov for more information.

Hello CSI Students, Families and Community,  

I am writing today to inform you of our reopening plans for both summer and fall 2020 semesters. Our administration has worked very hard over the past weeks to prepare a plan that allows students to begin summer courses and eventually join us on campus again in the fall. These plans have been created with the safety and well-being of our students, faculty and staff in mind. They are based on the information available to us from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, and South-Central Public Health District and consequently may change depending on factors that are largely out of our control.   

Please continue to reference our website at www.csi.edu/coronavirus as the most up-to-date resource regarding any changes to this plan. 

Summer Operations  

The College of Southern Idaho will be delivering most of our summer courses on-line. Campus offices will reopen to walk-in traffic on Monday, June 22, 2020.  The Student Union Building will be open for computer and printer use and internet access. The main campus and Mini-Cassia Testing Centers are open. Some offices may be temporarily relocated to achieve social distancing, so please be attentive to signage on building entrances regarding any temporary office locations. Please refer to the College of Southern Idaho website at www.csi.edu/coronavirus for further updates on the opening of our Off-Campus Centers. 

Fall Operations 

The College will still begin its fall semester on August 24, 2020.  Registration for fall semester is open and courses will be offered in a variety of formats to accommodate our students’ needs, including face-to-face, on-line and hybrid offerings.  It is our intention to continue to provide in-person instruction through the entire fall semester while ensuring that public safety standards are observed. 

Campus Housing  

The College will welcome our residential students back to campus this fall, reserving isolated space for exposed or infected students.  Based on guidance from the South-Central Public Health District, students may be required to undergo COVID-19 testing throughout the semester if public health circumstances warrant. Students will be expected to wear facial coverings on campus where social distancing is not feasible (except in their sleeping rooms) and are encouraged to follow state guidelines while off-campus. The Residential Life Department will be sending out additional information related to the move-in process later in the summer.  

Student Recreation Center

The CSI Student Recreation Center will reopen on June 22, 2020.

Dining Services  

Dining Services will reopen on August 24, 2020.  We are currently planning for all food service to be to-go only. Indoor seating areas will be reduced to promote social distancing.   

Athletic Practices and Competitions  

The College’s Athletic Department will be coordinating with regional public health offices and the National Junior College Athletic Association to implement athletics for 2020-2021.  Active sanitizing and cleaning of facilities will occur, and athletic competitions may require reduced capacity for spectators.  The National Junior College Athletic Association is expected to provide additional guidance in late June. 

Community Health Strategies 

We are committed to ensuring the safety of all CSI community members. In alignment with the recommendations from the CDC, Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, and South-Central Public Health District, face masks or coverings must be worn while indoors and in the presence of other, when social distancing is not possible. The College will continue enhanced cleaning protocols in all spaces.  One-way pedestrian traffic may be established and offices may be moved to ensure safe working environments.   

Future Updates 

All updates to these campus plans will be posted on the CSI Coronavirus webpage and specific questions can be sent to info@csi.edu.  

The safety of our campus community is a shared responsibility.  We must all strive to keep each other and ourselves healthy.  By following the guidelines from the CDC, Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, and South-Central Public Health District we have the best chance of reducing infections and avoiding transmission both on campus and within local communities.  These prevention strategies have been put in place in order to safely re-open CSI and bring our campus community back together.   

Thank you for ensuring the safety of our collective campuses and our local communities.  We can’t wait to see you back on campus soon! 

As more and more employees return to campus, questions continue to arise regarding CSI’s expectations in and around maintaining a healthy work environment. As always, we encourage employees to follow the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control, the State of Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, and the South-Central Public Health District. 

Until directed otherwise, CSI is adopting the following guidelines:

Personal Safety Practices regarding Face Masks/Cloth Face Coverings:

Face masks or face coverings must be worn by all employees while working at CSI when in the presence of others (e.g., common workspaces, meeting rooms, classrooms, etc.). Face masks or face coverings are not required to be worn when employees are working alone in a private space, when working outside, or in spaces where social distancing can be properly maintained.

As noted in the IDHR State of Idaho Workforce: Return to Work and Stay Healthy (2020) guidelines:

Wearing cloth face coverings is intended to protect employees and others in settings where it is difficult to maintain social distancing. However, it is important to remember that wearing the cloth face covering does not replace social distancing. We must continue to maintain a six-foot (6) distance from others wherever possible… Generally, state employees do not need to wear a medical-grade mask (e.g., N95 respirators or surgical mask) …  For the general public who are not in close contact with COIVD-19 patients, cloth face coverings are recommended and should be used in combination with social distancing… Cloth face coverings should be washed frequently based on use. (p. 13)

If an employee has a medical condition that prevents them from wearing a mask or cloth face covering, alternatives may be considered. Please contact Human Resources at hr@csi.edu or 208-732-6271, if you believe that you fall into this category. 

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we strive to meet our mission while maintaining a safe work environment.

References

Duke University. (2020, May 13). Guide for Returning to the Workplace.  Retrieved from

https://coronavirus.duke.edu/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Return-to-the-Workplace.pdf 

Idaho Division of Human Resources. (2020, May 15). Guide for the State of Idaho Workforce Return to

I hope this finds you and yours safe and well. The landscape of the past several weeks and the foreseeable future have certainly been a challenge to us. I am so appreciative of your willingness to step up during the early stages of this pandemic. Faculty and staff all assisted each other and our students to make rapid transitions to online learning. Maintenance and security have kept the campus clean and safe. Everyone has made sacrifices, and we all have shouldered this burden together. This is CSI, and we can be proud. 

CSI is aligning with Governor Little’s Rebound Idaho plan and making appropriate adjustments for our campus. Since the first stages, CSI campus has been effectively closed to all but a limited number of key employees. The Governor’s plan for business reopening is a solid framework, and where feasible and safe, we will utilize that plan for CSI. At this time, the campus is planning a soft opening only for CSI mission critical and education-related activities as of Monday, June 22. Our goal is to prepare the campus for fall, planning for face-to-face courses, online courses, and functionally modified labs and workspaces all observing appropriate safety measures. As these times are uncertain, we commit to regular re-evaluation of operations.  

Our commitment to enact non-medical interventions (such as social distancing, ultra-hygiene, and wearing masks in public) will enable CSI to monitor and adapt as needed pending the course of the virus, and like the Governor’s plan, we will review our progress in reopening the campus for employees and students regularly with updated information and protocols from the Governor, South Central Public Health, and the CDC.  

Rebound CSI is a staged plan with details for returning to campus, to offices, buildings, classrooms, dorms, and off-campus centers. Again, though aligned with the Governor’s plan, the Rebound CSI plan is our road map to minimize risk and protect our employees and our students.  

Though much is yet unknown regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, we are planning for a fall semester as follows:   

• Instruction and college services will be delivered both face-to-face and virtually.
• Classes offered face-to-face will be designed to seamlessly migrate to a virtual format, if warranted.
• All Idaho General Education Matriculation (GEM) Ways of Knowing will be available in an all-online format for students who desire to attend with an online schedule. Not everyGEM course will be available online, but these selected courses fulfill general education graduation requirements at all Idaho public colleges and universities. 

Recognizing the imminent leadership transition, the Cabinet and I have been working closely with President-elect Dean Fisher on these plans, and he will begin his work on campus next month. As information is available, we will continue to provide updates on the Rebound CSI plan.  

Using Governor Little’s Rebound Idaho plan as a framework, CSI will tentatively resume operations only for CSI mission critical and education-related operations on Monday, June 22. This plan is subject to change based on the status of Rebound Idaho and CSI needs.

Daily Protocol for all employees and students for all stages:

• Practice social distancing at all locations
• Ensure adequate sanitation and hygiene for employees, students, and visitors
• Practice frequent disinfection, especially high-touch surfaces
• Observe policy for gloves, masks, face coverings
• Avoid close interactions
• Establish screening practices for employees (and potentially for students)
• Practice good hygiene
• Cover coughs and sneezes

• Employees return to workplace if circumstances allow at employee and supervisor discretion (telework still encouraged)
• No face-to-face meetings
• Minimize travel, self-quarantine according to CDC Guidelines for out of state personal travel. No out-of-state work-related travel
• Begin preparations for employee and student return to campus (sneeze guards, signage, distancing, etc.)

• Continued phasing return to workplace, including staggered shifts where necessary
• Limited face-to-face meetings as appropriate for small groups of up to 10 people
• Students are encouraged to continue using remote student services and business office functions

• Meetings may resume per the Governor’s recommendation for fewer than 50 people, where appropriate physical distancing and precautionary measures can occur
• Students requiring access to specific labs and classes permitted with conditions
• All CSI Testing Centers may reopen June 1
• Limited facilities use for CSI mission critical and educational purposes only
• Non-essential in-state travel is restricted
• No out of state travel

• Continue to practice physical distancing and hygiene protocols
• Employees resume work on campus and in centers, subject to local restrictions
• Buildings on the Main campus and off campus centers may reopen to public for CSI mission critical and educational purposes only, subject to local restrictions beginning June 22
• Student Services may resume limited operations beginning June 22
• CSI Childcare for CSI employees only may reopen beginning June 22
• Review protocols and conditions for broader opening of classrooms and labs in fall
• Resume education-related operations adhering to conditions set for all stages

Future Stages Under Consideration

• Due to repairs, deep cleaning, maintenance and staff training, the Student Recreation Center and the CSI Ropes Course may open July 6, if Rebound Idaho criteria are met.
• Community use of facilities (events, rentals) may begin August 1
• CSI Childcare may reopen for fall semester

CSI Students,

In a world where COVID-19 has taken center stage, your health, safety, and success remains the focus at the College of Southern Idaho. While we are anxious to return to normal, we will do so following guidance and recommendations from our public health officials and our state leaders.

The COVID-19 impact has been felt everywhere, and to help mitigate the effect on your academic experience, the Department of Education has allocated funding to directly support you. Known as the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, the funding will be provided to help you cover costs incurred from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Making sure our students with the greatest need receive assistance is a priority for College of Southern Idaho. Our goal is to provide access to funds that are intended to help you with expenses, including course materials, distance-based technology, food, housing, health care, and childcare.  Our model for distribution is outlined below and will be primarily distributed based on the Expected Family Contribution calculated for each student on their completed 19/20 (Spring & Summer) or 20/21 (Fall) FAFSA. Students who did not complete a FAFSA are not eligible for funding and therefore are not included in our distribution plan.

Governor Little’s stay-home order to prevent unnecessary spread of COVID-19 expires today, April 30. In preparation for this and for the future now that there is some data and awareness about the disease, he created his Rebound Idaho plan to reinvigorate the Idaho economy in four stages with set specifications. In light of these developments, I am writing today to clarify steps we can take at CSI as Stage One rolls out.

Given educational activity was originally defined as an "essential service," CSI has always tried to respond appropriately. We have made independent decisions based on what we felt was best for the community, for our students, and for our employees. We have also tried to be cognizant of the Governor's direction and respectful of his strategies. 

On May 4, we will begin to participate in a staged reopening of our own, congruent with the Rebound Idaho plan. It is important to note that Governor Little's plan continues to promote "telework" through mid-June, even under ideal and improving circumstances. CSI’s plan is for CSI employees who are having difficulty performing the requirements of their position from home can return to work on Monday, May 4 in coordination with their supervisor. A significant part of this coordination is that all social distancing, hygiene, and other mitigation efforts must align with the Governor's directive. (This includes, but is not limited to, avoiding close contact with others, frequent hand washing, covering coughs and sneezes, etc.)

This may mean different things to different employees depending on the nature of the work you do for the College. Employees generally work in office settings, but not all. Some areas of campus are purposefully arranged in close quarters, and some are not. It is the responsibility of supervisors to maintain appropriate distancing in these cases, which may mean staggered work schedules for those choosing to return. The Maintenance Department will ensure that appropriate sanitation and disinfecting protocols are followed. 

This is CSI’s first step in a return to work for CSI employees desiring or wishing to do so. During this first stage, we will continue to enforce group size limitations (no in-person meetings), travel restrictions (no work-related travel), limited access to campus (areas of Taylor Building only) for students, and overall restricted building access except for employees and contractors. During the next two weeks, we will be establishing more specific plans for the next stages of reopening. I encourage you to read through Governor Little’s Rebound Idaho plan, paying particular attention to the overall guidelines and to Stage One.

Important Upcoming Dates and Information:

• Summer and Fall 2020 Schedules are now available on MyCSI for viewing.  
• Registration for the Summer and Fall 2020 semesters begins Monday April 20, at 8:00 AM for Degree Seeking Students.
  • Due to COVID-19 and CSI temporarily moving its operations on-line, for the summer 2020 semester students will not be required to meet with their advisors prior to registering.  Students are still highly encouraged to contact their advisor to ensure appropriate course selection and timeliness to completion.
• Registration for the Summer and Fall 2020 semesters begins Monday April 27, at 8:00 AM for Non-Degree Seeking Students.
• The last day to withdraw from a regular Spring 2020 course is Thursday, April 30 at 5:00 PM.
  • Withdraws are requested by completing a paper Add/Drop/Withdraw form (attached) and submitting it to the Office of the Registrar through email (records@csi.edu); a withdraw CANNOT be requested through MyCSI or by fax.  If you are planning to withdraw from ALL courses, you must fill out a Complete Withdraw Form (also attached) and talk with a Financial Aid Advisor before processing.
• Completing your degree or certificate in May or July?  Apply for graduation now on MyCSI.
  • Degrees are not automatically awarded. Students MUST complete an Application for Graduation to be considered for a degree.

The College of Southern Idaho was notified today by the South Central Public Health District (SCPHD) that a student who attended classes in the Evergreen building on the main CSI campus in Twin Falls has tested positive for coronavirus (COVID-19). This individual has not been on campus since March 17, 2020, and SCPHD expects all people who are going to get sick due to contact with this individual should already be showing symptoms. SCPHD will contact you with further instruction if you were named as a close contact by this individual (or anyone who has tested positive and is being investigated).

Please continue to follow Governor Little’s Stay Home Order, plus CDC and SCPHD guidelines. If you or a family member currently have a cough, fever, shortness of breath, or other cold/flu-like symptoms please stay home. Please call your provider if you cannot manage your symptoms at home or if you are considered high-risk because of your age or underlying medical conditions. Testing can also be arranged through your provider’s office. Those with symptoms should alert close contacts (e.g., family members) of potential exposure to the virus.

Although transmission from asymptomatic people has been documented, people are most infectious when they are sick. If you do not have symptoms, there is little risk of making others sick. People who are sick should stay isolated for at least seven days from symptom onset AND three days with no symptoms (the three days can be within the seven days). Close contacts of sick people should remain isolated for 14 days from their last day of exposure. 

For general coronavirus questions, please call the SCPHD hotline at (208) 737-1138. SCPHD reminds everyone to follow the recommended guidelines to help stop the spread of coronavirus. These include keeping six feet between yourself and others, stay home as much as possible, avoid all social gatherings, avoid non-essential travel, and cancel visits to nursing homes, hospitals, or locations where high-risk individuals might live. Please visit www.phd5.idaho.gov for more information.

Yesterday, Governor Brad Little issued a Statewide Stay-Home Order directing all residents of Idaho to immediately self-isolate and stay and work from home as much as possible, unless you work in healthcare, public safety, or an identified “essential business”. With this order, you should stay at home unless you need to obtain or provide essential services such as buying groceries and receiving medical care. If you’d like to leave your home to exercise, make sure to practice social distancing by remaining at least 6 feet away from others. People 65 years of age and older or those who are health-compromised should not leave home, if possible.

Higher Education is listed on Governor Little’s order as an essential service. What does that mean? Beginning Monday, March 30, 2020, with few exceptions, all CSI classes will be offered online. Are you ready? If not, we are here to help you. Your first move should be contacting your instructors to make sure you are aware of the plans for the classes you are taking. Remember that we are on Spring Break and instructors may not respond until Monday, March 30. If you can’t get ahold of your instructor, email info@csi.edu and we will make sure you get taken care of. Services to students will still be available during this time, you’ll just have to email or call us instead of coming to campus. Not sure who to contact? Try finding what you need on our Remote Student Services Contact List.

Ok, so that addresses students, but what about employees? Don’t worry, we didn’t forget about you. Employees are still expected to work remotely if they can. If you can’t, please make sure you are in constant contact with your supervisor.

Listed below are a few other things you should note during this time:

Gilbert’s Food Pantry

CSI Student Services has opened Gilbert’s Food Pantry to assist CSI students who are food deficient. If you are a current CSI student who could use some help, please know that your request will be handled privately and confidentially. You will need to fill out the Gilberts Pantry Request Form. If you are unable to do so you may email your request to rlopez@csi.edu. The pantry will remain open from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, until further notice, to provide free emergency food assistance to CSI students.

Computer Use for Students

If you don’t have a computer, you might be able to check one out by calling IT Support at 208-732-6311 or emailing helpdesk@csi.edu! Supplies are limited, so contact them as soon as possible. If you aren’t able to check out a computer, don’t worry, there are other computers available on the main floor of the Student Union Building (Taylor). Please use the North entrance of the Taylor Building to access these computers. They will be available from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, until further notice. Students in the Eagle Residence Hall will have access to the Residence Hall computers. On a side note, if you have a computer and just need WIFI, you might be able to get a signal by parking in one of the main campus parking lots in Twin Falls.

Live Q&A with CSI Certified Peer Educators

Do you have questions that haven’t been answered yet? CSI Certified Peer Educators will be doing a live CSI Coronavirus Q&A session from 12-1  p.m. on Tuesday, March 31, 2020. Jump on and ask your questions.

Finally, thank you for being kind, flexible, and compassionate as we work with a rapidly changing environment. Our CSI Coronavirus website will continuously be updated with helpful information as we learn of new situations that might affect you. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need help, we are here to support you!

St. Luke’s Magic Valley screening process for coronavirus (COVID-19) and quick care/same-day appointment needs

Tomorrow (Thursday, March 26), St. Luke’s Magic Valley will open drive-up tents for screening and specimen collection for testing for coronavirus (COVID-19). Patients exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms will be able to stay in their cars for screening, registration and, if needed, sample collection for testing for suspected COVID-19.

The screening station will be available from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, until further notice. The screening station is in a tent outside St. Luke’s Surgery Center at the St. Luke’s Magic Valley campus at 575 Pole Line Road W. in Twin Falls. Vehicles should enter via Parkview Dr.

Patients who need immediate medical care for their symptoms will be directed appropriately to an appropriate level of care.

There is no cost for the screening or collection of samples for COVID-19 testing.

For those who feel they need to see a provider for respiratory infection or acute illness, please call your primary care provider. St. Luke’s Quick Care providers are also seeing patients and providing in-car visits. These are for patients who need to see a provider and normal provider visit charges will be applied. St. Luke’s Quick Care is located at 775 Pole Line Road W., Suite 103 in Twin Falls and open daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Orthopedic injuries: St. Luke’s Clinic Orthopedics, Spine & Plastic Surgery will be providing temporary expanded orthopedic urgent care services, providing same-day availability for urgent orthopedic injuries from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, starting Monday, March 30. The clinic is located at 738 North College Rd., Suite A in Twin Falls. Please call ahead to 208-814-7000.

Patients in Jerome should proceed to the Magic Valley location for drive-up tent screening and specimen collection for testing or call the hotline at 208-381-9500.

Patients who need assistance after hours, should call the St. Luke’s hotline at 208-381-9500.

Click here for a map. 

It is with deep sadness, that the College of Southern Idaho announces the cancelation of the May 2020, Commencement Ceremonies. On March 16, 2020, the Idaho Department of Health & Welfare, based on guidance from the Center for Disease Control (CDC), released Guidance for Mass Gatherings and Public Events in Idaho, which recommends the cancelation of gatherings which will consist of 50 or more people, may expose high-risk populations, or will draw audiences from communities with confirmed community spread of COVID-19. These guidelines are recommended for the next 8 weeks.  The CSI commencement ceremonies meet all of the above-listed CDC criteria and is within the 8 week window.

We understand how disappointing this decision is for our students, faculty, staff, and families who have worked tirelessly to reach this achievement. This decision was not made lightly, but ultimately the health and safety of our campus community and their families must be paramount. Please rest assured, while the ceremony may not happen, earned degrees and certificates will still be awarded once the semester has concluded. Student transcripts will reflect earned degrees and certificates as soon as they are conferred. Diplomas will be mailed to students approximately six to eight weeks after the end of the term. The CSI Office of the Registrar will also send each graduate a diploma cover and tassel in celebration of their accomplishments. Finally, December 2019, and May 2020, graduates will be invited to participate in a future ceremony.

All questions and concerns about graduation and commencement should be referred to the CSI Registrar, Dr. Michele McFarlane, at mmcfarlane@csi.edu or 208.732.6304.

St. Luke’s Wood River’s temporary same-day appointment and screening process for COVID-19

Today, St. Luke’s Wood River opened a COVID-19 screening and testing station. Patients will be able to stay in their cars for screening, registration and, if needed, testing for suspected coronavirus (COVID-19).

The screening station will be available from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, until further notice. The screening station is in a tent outside the physician office annex at St. Luke’s Wood River Medical Center at 100 Hospital Drive in Ketchum. Vehicles should enter via the traffic light at 100 Hospital Drive and Highway 75, and yield to emergency vehicles.

Patients who need immediate medical care for their symptoms will be directed appropriately to the Emergency Department. Individuals meeting testing criteria who do not require hospitalization will be sent home to self-quarantine while awaiting test results. Those who do not meet testing criteria will be sent home with instructions.

Until further notice, St. Luke’s Wood River Family Medicine will only be scheduling same-day appointments for non-respiratory health concerns at the physician office annex, Suite 109 in Ketchum. 

The Hailey clinic will be open only for previously scheduled appointments. To schedule an appointment, contact 208-788-3434, Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

 If you do not have a primary care provider, please contact:

• Luke’s Wood River Family Medicine in Hailey, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 208-788-3434.
• Center for Community Health (for non-medical evaluations and questions, such as assistance finding a primary care provider and accessing other local resources), Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 208-727-8733.
• If you need assistance after hours, please call 208-381-9000.
• For general questions, call the Idaho CareLine state hotline at 2-1-1 or 1-800-926-2588.

The CSI Bookstore will continue to assist students in any way possible. In response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) with the College moving all courses to online instruction, and students returning home, we are working with our rental partner to allow flexibility of the rental return timeline. Along with this flexibility the CSI Bookstore is providing prepaid return labels to any student that is not able to return their rentals to the Campus Bookstore. Each student will need to request a prepaid label by emailing CSIBookstore@csi.edu by the end of the semester (May 8, 2020) along with the following information:

Student ID

First & Last Name

Address

City, State, Zip

Phone Number

Email

Upon receipt, the CSI Bookstore will email return labels within 2 business days to the email provided. Place your rental books in a box and place the return label on the box. You need to mail your books in returnable condition to the CSI Bookstore by the end of the following week May 15, 2020. Your shipment can be taken to any FedEx drop off location where you will not be charged. 

At this time, the College of Southern Idaho is dedicated to paying all employees their scheduled pay through April 25. This is an evolving situation that will continue to be evaluated. To help the college with documentation for possible federal refunds, please fill out a leave slip if you are going home and unable to work, put “CORONA” in the notes section. You will not lose those hours. The slips will be used for documentation only. If you are working your normal hours from home, there is no need to fill out a leave slip. 

Individuals being paid overload will receive the pay they are contracted to receive for this semester. 

Work Studies can be paid if the College closes and displaces student workers. 

Supervisors should continue to submit timesheets with normal scheduled hours through April 14, even if employees are unable to work during this time. If employees are unable to work, put “CORONA” in the description section of the timesheet. 

Please continue to work with your supervisors to establish a plan that works best for you. If you can work, please continue to do so either in office or remotely. For more information, please contact CSI Human Resources at hr@csi.edu. And again, we encourage all members of our College community to exercise compassion during this challenging time. 

In light of the recent regional area school closures and the consequences related to child and family care, the College of Southern Idaho encourages employees to communicate with their supervisors and students to communicate with their instructors as soon as possible if it becomes necessary that they must work or attend class from home. CSI will remain open at this time, but circumstances are evolving.  Please continue to monitor your email and www.csi.edu/coronavirus. We encourage all members of our College community to exercise compassion during this challenging time. 

As you have all probably heard, Idaho has its second case of coronavirus confirmed in Blaine County. Not long after this case was confirmed, the Blaine County School District made the decision to close all school district buildings and cancel all classes until April 5. This impacts CSI for several reasons, but most significantly because the CSI Blaine County Center shares a building with the Blaine County School District. We know that this is concerning, and we are working to keep people as informed as possible.

As of today, Saturday, March 14, the CSI Blaine County Center will be closed until further notice to be in line with the Blaine County School District decision. This means that the building is locked and not accessible. Thus, there is no proctored testing available. All classes are in the process of being moved online already, so there will be no impact to the instructional plan. If students have any questions, they should start with their instructors who will help them navigate the resources that they will need during this closure. The Blaine County Center office staff are currently preparing to offer as many services as possible remotely. For questions, please contact Hallie Star hstar@csi.edu or Sarah Caballero at scaballero@csi.edu.  Phones will be forwarded as well, so you can continue to call (208) 788-2033 for help.

Please do your best to keep yourself, your loved ones, and your community well. More information will be sent out as soon as it becomes available.