Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)

 
 
2020 -2023 Reports

 

Galveston College President Myles Shelton today issued the following message regarding the return to campus for the spring 2022 semester. Galveston College will continue as scheduled with on-campus instruction beginning Tuesday, Jan. 18.

Dear Whitecaps Community:

Thank you for your patience as we navigated the decision-making process regarding the start of classes for the spring 2022 semester. Our goal is to take proactive and well-advised measures to protect the health and safety of our students, faculty, staff and community in accordance with guidance provided by the Galveston County Health District and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Spring 2022 Instruction
Galveston College will continue as scheduled with on-campus instruction beginning Tuesday, Jan. 18. We have a robust schedule of on-campus, online and hybrid options based on our students’ needs and comfort levels. Registration will continue through Friday, Jan. 14. Please visit https://gc.edu/yourcollegeyourway/ to view the options and courses. Our goal at Galveston College is always to present the same academic content to all students, whether they are in a classroom, online in a Zoom lecture, online in a traditional internet class or in a combination of these learning options.

Health and Safety Protocols
As you may be aware, there has been a significant surge in the COVID-19 positivity rate in Galveston County and the city of Galveston. Although the Omicron variant of COVID-19 seems to result in much less severe illness than did its precursor Delta, in numbers, COVID-19 has never been worse in our community. We currently have several Galveston College students and employees who have tested positive for COVID-19, and we also have several members of our campus community who are quarantining due to the fact that they were exposed to COVID-19.

In the days ahead, we may need to announce additional COVID-19 operational guidelines and protocols. For now, as you come to campus, we encourage each of you to wear a mask or face covering. The latest information from the CDC essentially recommends wearing a mask in public indoor settings in areas of substantial or high community transmission, regardless of vaccination status. All of Galveston is a high-transmission area. The CDC also provides advice about masks for people who want to learn more about what type of mask is right for them depending on their circumstances.

Based on the Governor of Texas’s most recent Executive Order concerning COVID-19, we cannot require the wearing of masks on campus; however, we strongly encourage all students, faculty, staff and visitors to accept personal responsibility and commit to wearing a mask or facial covering while on campus. In doing so, you are protecting yourself and others.

We also strongly encourage you to continue to social distance, practice healthy hygiene and handwashing, and monitor your health daily.

Vaccinations
Also in keeping with CDC guidelines, we strongly encourage COVID-19 vaccinations for everyone in our campus community. Vaccines are readily available from local healthcare providers, pharmacies and the Galveston County Health District. If you have questions about the vaccine, please consult with your physician, healthcare provider, or the Galveston County Health District. To schedule your free COVID-19 vaccination or booster with the Galveston County Health District, visit https://www.gchd.org/public-health-services/covid-19/covid-19-vaccines.

Registration and Student Support Services
Late registration for the spring 2022 semester will continue as scheduled today and Friday, Jan. 14, on the first floor of Moody Hall on the main campus. Students may also register and make schedule changes on myGC on the Whitecaps portal at https://whitecaps.gc.edu/.

Student Services, including Admissions and Records, Financial Aid, the Testing Center, the Counseling and Advising Center, the Career Placement and Tutoring Center, as well as the David Glenn Hunt Memorial Library, are open. The Galveston College Bookstore on the first floor of Moody Hall and Mr. C’s in the Cheney Student Center are open for business.

Cleaning and Disinfecting Procedures
Please rest assured that our Facilities department’s cleaning and disinfecting procedures are ongoing. Our goal is to keep Galveston College clean, open and accessible to our community.

COVID-19 Reporting
Students, faculty and staff who test positive for COVID-19, who have been exposed to an individual who has tested positive, or who are experiencing symptoms consistent with COVID-19 are required to self-report. Additional information concerning COVID-19 and the form to self-report can be found at https://gc.edu/coronavirus/.

Galveston College officials are closely monitoring the Omicron variant with the intent of delivering a safe, high-quality education and experience for our students. Thank you for your flexibility, patience and respect for one another. This is a time for all of us to work together as each one of us has a role in protecting the health and safety of our campus community.

Sincerely,

W. Myles Shelton
President

The following message was sent today via email from President Myles Shelton to Galveston College students, faculty and staff:

Campus Community:

As you are aware, Galveston College shifted to remote instruction for the first six weeks of classes of the fall 2021 semester because of the number of COVID-19 cases in Galveston County, in the City of Galveston, and on the Galveston College campus. Since that time, the number of newly identified COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations in Galveston County has decreased significantly. Consequently, on-campus/face-to-face classes will resume as originally scheduled with students, faculty, and staff reporting to campus, beginning Monday, Oct. 11.

Vaccinations and Vaccination Opportunity and Incentive Program
With the full approval of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine by the FDA, we strongly encourage COVID-19 vaccinations for everyone in our campus community.

The Galveston Community College District Board of Regents recently approved a vaccination opportunity and incentive program for current students, faculty, and staff at Galveston College. The program is being funded by the federal Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund. Participating students will receive a $200 gift certificate to the Galveston College Bookstore. Current full- and part-time employees as of August 30 will receive a one-time incentive of $300, which will be included on the November payroll. Information concerning the vaccination opportunity and incentive program is available at https://gc.edu/vaccination-opportunity-and-incentive-program/.

We know that vaccination is the best way each of us can protect ourselves, our loved ones, and our community against the effects of COVID-19 and its Delta variant. We hope this incentive program will encourage students, faculty, and staff who haven’t been vaccinated to avail themselves of the opportunity.

Facial Coverings/Face Masks
For students, faculty, staff, and visitors coming to campus, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued guidance and safety protocols to help us protect each other from COVID-19. The latest information from the CDC essentially states that due to the Delta variant of COVID-19, fully vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals alike should wear facial coverings/face masks indoors in high-transmission areas. All of Galveston County has been determined to be a high-transmission area. These recommendations are in addition to the recommendations concerning social distancing, hand washing, and other healthy hygiene habits.

Based on the Governor of Texas’s most recent Executive Order concerning COVID-19, we cannot currently require the wearing of masks on campus; however, we strongly encourage all students, faculty, staff, and visitors to accept personal responsibility and commit to wearing a mask or facial covering while on campus. In doing so, you are protecting yourself and others.

COVID-19 Reporting
As in previous months, students, faculty, and staff who test positive for COVID-19, who have been exposed to an individual who has tested positive, or who are experiencing symptoms consistent with COVID-19 are required to self-report. Additional information concerning COVID-19 and the form to self-report can be found at https://gc.edu/coronavirus-report/.

Thank you for your continued efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19 within our campus community. We appreciate your support, encouragement, flexibility, and resilience, as we continue to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic and to fulfill the mission of Galveston College.

Sincerely,

W. Myles Shelton
President

The following message was sent today via email from President Myles Shelton to Galveston College students, faculty and staff: 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Campus Community:
 
As you are aware, Galveston College announced a shift to remote instruction for the first three weeks of classes of the fall 2021 semester because of a significant increase in the number of COVID-19 cases in Galveston County, the City of Galveston, and on the Galveston College campus. Since that time, COVID-19 cases in the United States have climbed back to levels not seen since last winter. Here in Galveston County, more students and staff members in our local school districts have tested positive for COVID-19 so far this semester than did during the entire first semester of 2020.
 
Extension of Remote Learning for Three Weeks
While we had hoped to have better news to share and to return to in-person learning here at Galveston College on Monday, September 20, the continued surge in COVID-19 cases, coupled with a strain on our local healthcare resources, necessitates that we continue to scale back the number of students, classes, and employees on campus.  This means that the majority of our on-campus classes will continue to operate remotely for at least three more weeks through Friday, October 8.  During the weeks ahead, we will continue to monitor and assess our operational plans and protocols. It remains our intention to return to on-campus learning this semester.
 
As they did during the first three weeks of classes, students enrolled in technical and professional programs that require hands-on instruction will continue to come to campus for in-person laboratories and instruction. These programs include, but are not limited to, the following:
 
  • Associate Degree Nursing 
  • Certified Nurse Assistant (Continuing Education) 
  • Computed Tomography 
  • Computer Network System Administration 
  • Cosmetology 
  • Culinary Arts 
  • Diagnostic Medical Sonography 
  • Electrical & Electronics Technology 
  • Emergency Medical Services 
  • Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Technology 
  • Instrumentation Technology 
  • Law Enforcement Academy 
  • Logistics 
  • LVN/EMT-P Transition to Associate Degree Nursing 
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technology 
  • Medical Administration 
  • Nuclear Medicine Technology 
  • Patient Care Technology (CE) 
  • Phlebotomy (CE) 
  • Radiation Therapy Technology 
  • Radiography 
  • Surgical Technology 
  • Vocational Nursing 
  • Welding Technology 
 
Specific information regarding laboratories and/or clinicals for technical programs requiring face-to-face, hands-on training will be provided by the individual program directors and/or instructors. 
 
Dual-credit classes will continue to meet as scheduled and will follow all health and safety protocols as established by each school district.
 
Vaccinations and Vaccination Opportunity and Incentive Program
With the full approval of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine by the FDA, we strongly encourage COVID-19 vaccinations for everyone in our campus community. The Galveston Community College District Board of Regents recently approved a vaccination opportunity and incentive program for current students, faculty, and staff at Galveston College. The program is being funded by the federal Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund. Participating students will receive a $200 gift certificate to the Galveston College Bookstore. Current full- and part-time employees as of August 30 will receive a one-time incentive of $300, which will be included on the November payroll. Information concerning the vaccination opportunity and incentive program is available at https://gc.edu/vaccination-opportunity-and-incentive-program/. 
 
We know that vaccination is the best way each of us can protect ourselves, our loved ones, and our community against the effects of COVID-19 and its Delta variant. We hope this incentive program will encourage students, faculty, and staff who haven’t been vaccinated to avail themselves of the opportunity.
 
Facial Coverings/Face Masks
For students, faculty, staff, and visitors coming to campus, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued guidance and safety protocols to help us protect each other from COVID-19.  The latest information from the CDC essentially states that due to the Delta variant of COVID-19, fully vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals alike should wear facial coverings/face masks indoors in high-transmission areas.  And all of Galveston County has been determined to be a high-transmission area.  These recommendations are in addition to the recommendations concerning social distancing, hand washing, and other healthy hygiene habits.
 
Based on the Governor of Texas’s most recent Executive Order concerning COVID-19, we cannot currently require the wearing of masks on campus; however, we strongly encourage all students, faculty, staff, and visitors to accept personal responsibility and commit to wearing a mask or facial covering while on campus.  In doing so, you are protecting yourself and others.
 
COVID-19 Reporting 
As in previous months, students, faculty, and staff who test positive for COVID-19, who have been exposed to an individual who has tested positive, or who are experiencing symptoms consistent with COVID-19 are required to self-report.  Additional information concerning COVID-19 and the form to self-report can be found at https://gc.edu/coronavirus-report/. 
 
Thank you for your efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19 within our campus community. The health and safety of our students, faculty, staff, and community is paramount. We appreciate your patience, resilience, cooperation, and support, as we continue to respond to the pandemic and to fulfill the mission of Galveston College.
 
 
 
 
 
 
Sincerely,
 
W. Myles Shelton
President

Vaccination Opportunity and Incentive Program

On September 8, 2021, the Galveston Community College District Board of Regents approved a Vaccination Opportunity and Incentive Program for current faculty, staff and students at Galveston College. The program is being funded by the federal Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund.
 
For information about the program, visit https://gc.edu/vaccination-opportunity-and-incentive-program/.

The following message was sent today via email from President Myles Shelton to Galveston College students, faculty and staff:

As you are aware, in recent days there has been a high COVID-19 positivity rate and a significant increase in the number of COVID-19 cases reported in Galveston County, the City of Galveston, and on our campus. These changes in the pandemic have served as a trigger for us to re-evaluate and reassess our plans and operational protocols for the fall semester. 

 Temporary Changes to Instruction  

As a result of the increase in the number of COVID-19 cases in our area, it is necessary to scale back the number of students, classes, and employees on campus when the fall semester begins.  This means that the majority of our on-campus classes will be moved online beginning with the first day of classes, August 30, and continuing through Friday, September 17.  It remains our intention to return to on-campus classes as soon as possible.  During the weeks ahead we will continue to monitor and assess operational plans and protocols for the fall semester. 

 For the first three weeks, all fall semester classes moving online shall be delivered online synchronously via Zoom (i.e., at the same time and on the same days as they are currently scheduled, only instead of students coming to campus, the classes will be available electronically via Zoom), except where certain technical courses or programs require hands-on instruction that cannot be delivered online, but can be delivered face to face in accordance with appropriate health and safety protocols.  Galveston College programs where certain hands-on instruction cannot be delivered online may include: 

  Associate Degree Nursing  

  • Certified Nurse Assistant (Continuing Education)  
  • Computed Tomography  
  • Computer Network System Administration  
  • Cosmetology  
  • Culinary Arts  
  • Diagnostic Medical Sonography  
  • Electrical & Electronics Technology  
  • Emergency Medical Services  
  • Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Technology  
  • Instrumentation Technology  
  • Law Enforcement Academy  
  • Logistics  
  • LVN/EMT-P Transition to Associate Degree Nursing  
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technology  
  • Medical Administration  
  • Nuclear Medicine Technology  
  • Patient Care Technology (CE)  
  • Phlebotomy (CE)  
  • Radiation Therapy Technology  
  • Radiography  
  • Surgical Technology  
  • Vocational Nursing  
  • Welding Technology

 Specific information regarding laboratories and/or clinicals for technical programs requiring face-to-face hands-on training will be provided by the individual program directors and/or instructors. 

 
Dual-credit classes will meet as scheduled and will follow all health and safety protocols as established by each school district.
 
Facial Coverings / Face Masks 
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued guidance and safety protocols to help us protect each other from COVID-19.  The latest information from the CDC essentially states that due to the Delta variant of COVID-19, fully vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals alike should resume wearing facial coverings/face masks indoors in high-transmission areas.  And all of Galveston has been determined to be a high-transmission area.  These recommendations are in addition to the recommendations concerning social distancing, hand washing, and other healthy hygiene habits. 
 
As you are aware, following CDC recommendations, more specifically the wearing of masks, has become highly politicized.  Based on the Governor of Texas’s most recent Executive Order concerning COVID-19, we cannot currently require the wearing of masks on campus; however, we strongly encourage all students, faculty, staff, and visitors to accept personal responsibility and commit to wearing a mask or facial covering while on campus.  In doing so, you are protecting yourself and others. 
 
Vaccinations 
With the full approval of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine by the FDA, we strongly encourage COVID-19 vaccinations for everyone in our campus community.  Vaccines are readily available from local healthcare providers and pharmacies.  If you have questions about the vaccine, please consult with your physician or healthcare provider.  In addition, the College will be hosting a vaccination clinic on campus on September 15.  In the days ahead, we are also planning to announce an incentive program for faculty, staff, and students that will promote being vaccinated.  Please look for more details on this matter in the days ahead. 
 
Student Support Services 
Registration for the fall semester will continue as scheduled.  As classes move online for the first three weeks of the semester, student support and academic services will remain available in both virtual and in-person formats.  In some departments and areas of the College, supervisors may limit the number of personnel in a given area.  More information will be available on this matter to College personnel through their supervisors. 
 
Cleaning and Disinfecting Procedures 
For anyone who is on campus, I want to assure you that our facilities staff’s cleaning and disinfecting procedures are ongoing.  Our goal is to keep the College clean, open, and accessible to our community. 
 
Student Housing and Food Service 
GC Student Housing move-in day is Wednesday, August 25.  All student housing will open as scheduled.  We strongly encourage all students living on-campus to follow all health and safety protocols.  Mr. C’s, our on-campus food service provider, is planning to follow all safety protocols appropriate to any restaurant in our area. 
 
Athletics 
Practice and all intercollegiate competition will be conducted within the guidelines established by the NJCAA and Region XIV, as well as certain specific college guidelines and protocols.  Student housing will be open and available to student-athletes for the fall semester.
 
COVID-19 Reporting  
Students, faculty, and staff who test positive for COVID-19, who have been exposed to an individual who has tested positive, or who are experiencing symptoms consistent with COVID-19 are required to self-report.  Additional information concerning COVID-19 and the form to self-report can be found at:  https://gc.edu/
 
As we work together to seek to slow the spread of COVID-19 within our campus community, we want you to know that our campus is open to our faculty and staff, our students, and to the public as we continue to seek to fulfill the mission and purposes of the College.  And, as we move forward, I want to thank each one of you for your flexibility, patience, and respect for one another.  This is a time for all of us to work together as each one of us has a role in protecting the health and safety of our college community. 

As you are aware, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention last week revised its mask guidelines for those who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

After reviewing the CDC’s guidelines and consulting with local health authorities, Galveston College officials have determined that those who are fully vaccinated will no longer be required to wear masks on campus. However, we fully support anyone who chooses to wear a mask due to personal preference. For health and safety reasons, those who have not been vaccinated should continue wear appropriate masks or facial coverings. Proof of having a COVID-19 vaccination will not be required.

In addition to facial coverings, students, faculty and staff are also asked to monitor themselves for any COVID-19 symptoms and stay home if they are sick. It is each of our responsibility to take the personal precautions necessary to protect our campus community.

Students, faculty, staff and campus visitors should continue to remain vigilant with hand-washing, cleaning and sanitizing, and avoid close contact with those who are sick.

If you have not been vaccinated against COVID-19 and you need additional information about the vaccine and where to be vaccinated, please contact the Galveston County Health District at https://www.gchd.org/ or your local healthcare provider.

We will continue to monitor local COVID-19 information, and we reserve the right to again require masks if an increase in cases should warrant it.

Thank you for your attention to this important announcement.

 

COVID-19 Update: Making It Real for Summer and Fall 2021: A Framework for Summer and Fall Classes and Campus Operations

Galveston College, in partnership with the Galveston County Health District, will host a COVID-19 vaccination clinic on Thursday, April 8, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Hermes Fitness Center gym.

All Galveston College students, faculty, staff, and their family members and friends are invited to register to obtain their vaccinations.

The second dose will be administered on May 6.

A registration form is below. The form should be returned to Joyce Landry at [email protected] in Human Resources by Saturday, April 3.

Those registering with the college will receive a link from the health district to sign up for their preferred time on April 8. They also will receive a QR code. It’s very important to sign up in advance so that an accurate number of vaccines is available.

Texas opened COVID-19 vaccination appointments to everyone age 16 and older on March 29.

Galveston College expresses appreciation to the Galveston County Health District, Galveston County Office of Emergency Management, Office of Galveston County Judge Mark Henry and the University of Texas Medical Branch for sponsoring the clinic and for their efforts to vaccinate the citizens of Galveston County.

COVID-19 ON-SITE VACCINATION CLINIC SIGN-UP FORM

GALVESTON COLLEGE: April 8, 2021 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Return to Joyce Landry at [email protected] by Saturday, April 3, 2021.

Galveston College to Keep COVID-19 Precautions in Place
 
After consulting with state and local health officials and reviewing Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board recommendations and CDC health and safety protocols, Galveston College has determined all current COVID-19 protocols, including the wearing of facial coverings/masks, temperature checks, and health screenings, will remain in place at Galveston College for the time being. 
  
Governor Greg Abbott’s Executive Order regarding the mask mandate and opening Texas businesses 100 percent, effective Wednesday, March 10, allows each business, as well as each college and university, to determine its best and safest path forward. College officials have determined that the health and safety of our students, faculty, and staff while working to achieve the mission and purposes of the College will continue to be our highest priority during this pandemic. The College is dedicated to creating a campus environment that is as safe as possible and minimizes the spread of COVID-19.  
  
And as the pandemic is not over, College officials, in accordance with Governor Abbott’s Executive Order which stressed personal responsibility, encourage each person to continue to practice individual safety measures while on the Galveston College campus, including the wearing of a mask or facial covering, practicing social distancing, and washing/sanitizing hands frequently. Those who are ill should stay home. And, when invited to do so, get the vaccine. 

CARES HEERF Reports August 31, 2020

MSI Portion $76,698

    

No funds were expended to date.

    

Institutional Portion: $606,113

    

Funds were spent or allocated for the following activities:

    

Expenses relating to screening (supplies, equipment and staffing) of faculty, staff, students and visitors to campus to ensure their safety during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

     $34,800.00

Purchase of laptops and associated technology to provide to eligible students for access to remote instruction during the COVID-19 pandemic.

     $35,000.00

Purchase of laptops to loan students for future access to remote instruction during the COVID-19 pandemic and to build institutional capacity for access to distance learning during potential future disruptions.

     $59,000.00

Expenses relating to moving instruction and support services (testing, registration, financial aid, etc.) online while services were disrupted due to COVID-19 and to build institutional capacity for access to distance learning during potential future disruptions.

   $346,199.91
Expenses related to classroom/instructional safety during pandemic.

       $14,169.09

Refunds of room, board and fees due to COVID-19 disruption of services.

     $35,987.73

Unallocated 

     $80,956.27

CARES HEERF Institutional and MSI Reports July 30, 2020

MSI Portion $76,698

    

No funds were expended to date.

    

Institutional Portion: $606,113

    

Funds were spent or allocated for the following activities:

    

Expenses relating to screening (supplies, equipment and staffing) of faculty, staff, students and visitors to campus to ensure their safety during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

     $34,800.00

Purchase of laptops and associated technology to provide to eligible students for access to remote instruction during the COVID-19 pandemic.

     $35,000.00

Purchase of laptops to loan students for future access to remote instruction during the COVID-19 pandemic and to build institutional capacity for access to distance learning during potential future disruptions.

     $59,000.00

Expenses relating to moving instruction and support services (testing, registration, financial aid, etc.) online while services were disrupted due to COVID-19 and to build institutional capacity for access to distance learning during potential future disruptions.

   $342,581.29

Purchase of face shields and whiteboards for instruction during pandemic

       $4,350.00

Refunds of room, board and fees due to COVID-19 disruption of services.

     $53,500.00

Unallocated 

     $76,881.71

 

Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund Report (HEERF): Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students

Overview:

Section 18004(e) of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act” or the “Act”)), Pub. L. No. 116-136, 134 Stat. 281 (March 27, 2020), directs institutions receiving funds under Section 18004 of the Act to submit (in a time and manner required by the Secretary) a report to the Secretary describing the use of funds distributed from the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (“HEERF”). On May 6, 2020, the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Postsecondary Education posted their reporting requirements for HEERF participating institutions. Each HEERF participating institution is responsible for providing this information in report format (the “30-day Fund Report”). In addition, these participating institutions are required to post the information listed below on the institution’s primary website. Accordingly, the following information will be easily accessible to the public and made available 30 days after the date when the institution received its allocation under 18004(a)(1) and updated every 45 days thereafter.

 

 

Message from the President

Dear Students, Faculty, and Staff:

During the rapidly changing circumstances of the last several weeks, our country, state, and community took actions that were designed to protect us from COVID-19. And it was no different at Galveston College as we worked to create the opportunities for teaching and learning to continue while also working to keep you safe during this pandemic. Not that long ago, all classes at Galveston College moved online for the remainder of the spring semester. And now, as we approach the end of the spring semester and as we look forward to the summer and fall semesters, it is time for us to consider and make decisions about our next steps as we seek to continue to confront COVID-19 and to work to make sure that teaching and learning continue at Galveston College in the safest way possible.

However, before we talk about next steps, I first want to commend you, our students, our faculty, and our staff for your flexibility, your adaptability, and your perseverance this semester. I want you to know that I am proud of our faculty and staff as they have continued to work to help you, our students, succeed. And to our students, I am especially proud of you as you have continued in your studies and as you have committed yourselves to completing your programs of study even in the face of the hurdles and curves that you have encountered as a result of COVID-19. I commend your strength and your courage. #GCStrong

Due to the continuing COVID-19 pandemic, in accordance with state and local directives, and out of our continuing concern for you, our students, faculty, and staff, we announce the following decisions for all May mini-semester and summer classes (credit and Continuing Education classes).

All May mini-semester and summer classes (both credit and noncredit) will be delivered online, with the exception of certain technical courses and programs that require hands-on instruction that cannot be delivered online, but can be delivered face to face in accordance with CDC guidelines. Examples include shop, laboratory, and/or clinical segments of courses and programs in health science, nursing, emergency medical services, law enforcement, and other applied technology areas.

Registration for summer and fall classes will continue online through May. Then, one week prior to the beginning of the first summer session, limited in person admissions, financial aid, and registration services will be available on campus. Other academic and student support services will continue to be available online.

For the early part of the summer and continuing through July 31, employees where possible will continue to work remotely. For those individuals who must come to campus and/or work from campus, the College will allow flexible schedules and/or shifts, as approved by the immediate supervisor and the vice president responsible for that area of the College.

Beginning on Monday, May 18, as we begin to reopen the campus for students who need to complete clinicals and laboratory assignments in technical programs or technical courses, we will be working to comply with all appropriate CDC guidelines as well as the directives of state and local officials. All individuals entering campus facilities are expected to use a facial mask or face covering, as appropriate. (See FAQs for additional information concerning facial masks or face coverings.) In addition, as students, faculty, staff, and visitors enter the facilities, there will be screening stations to check for signs of COVID-19. Once inside campus facilities, faculty, staff, students, and visitors are expected to maintain an appropriate social distance as well as to continue to use facial masks or face coverings, as appropriate and in accordance with CDC guidelines.

Although we are looking forward to August, the fall semester, and a return to the normal operations of the College, we know that the COVID-19 situation is continuing to evolve and change on almost a daily basis. Consequently, we must plan for classes as scheduled in the fall and for normal operations while at the same time planning for the hurdles and curves that COVID-19 might still throw at us.

As we begin the process of reopening the campus and before I close this letter, let me again say how proud I am of each of you. And, although this is just the first stage in the reopening process, I know the Galveston College family is strong and up to the challenges of these uncertain times. I know our faculty and staff are continuing to help you, our students, succeed. And I am confident that you, our students, will continue to be strong and courageous as you work to continue your studies. #GCStrong

 

Regards,

Dr. W. Myles Shelton

President

Galveston College

 

In response to the coronavirus pandemic, Galveston College has extended the spring 2020 withdrawal deadline from April 17 to April 30.   “We certainly understand the tremendous impact of this unprecedented event on our students and their families,” said Dr. Myles Shelton, college president. “We encourage you to stay in your classes and work with your faculty members to address any concerns. You are very important to us. We’re all in this together.”   If you need assistance we are here to help. Academic and student support services are available to assist you in completing this semester and are ready to help you plan for the next semester.   Please email the Galveston College Counseling and Advising Center at [email protected] from your Whitecaps email address for academic advising and counseling assistance. Include your name, student ID and phone number in your correspondence.   The entire Galveston College community is dedicated to helping you have the most successful educational experience possible. Please do not hesitate to contact us as we all work to remain healthy and continue our daily activities.

Due to the continuing worldwide COVID-19 pandemic and out of continuing concern for students, faculty, staff and community, Galveston College is announcing three major decisions today.

  • Galveston College spring semester classes will be completed online. Although the College had originally indicated that it intended to resume face-to-face classes on Monday, April 6, that no longer appears to be a realistic expectation. Consequently, all spring semester classes are being scheduled to be completed strictly online. For students who do not currently have access to campus laboratories/facilities or access to their clinical sites, instructors will provide additional information and instructions, as appropriate.  Academic and student support services will continue to be available online. In addition, registration for summer and fall classes will open online on Monday, April 13. In order to plan coursework for the fall and spring, current students and prospective students should plan to contact their adviser by email or phone for instructions for registering online. As soon as the campus can be safely opened to students and the general public, the College will open for in-person registration.
  • As it is anticipated that students will not be able to come to campus at the end of this semester, online final exams and/or other mechanisms for the end-of-semester assessment of student learning will be announced by the faculty to their individual classes.
  • The May graduation/commencement ceremonies will be postponed. The degrees and/or certificates for students who are completing their degrees or certificates in May will be mailed at the end of the semester. However, all students graduating in May as well as those students completing their studies during the summer will be invited to participate in a summer commencement ceremony on Friday, August 21.

Galveston College’s Emergency Management Team continues to work diligently on this unprecedented situation by closely monitoring guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), particularly information specific to institutions of higher education, state and local public health and emergency management authorities and the College’s own healthcare experts, as well as responses from other colleges and universities nationwide.

 

The College is working to make well-informed decisions to ensure that teaching and learning continue and college operations continue while protecting the health and safety of students, faculty, staff, and community members. For additional information on this situation and Galveston College, follow the College on Facebook or check out the College’s website at www.gc.edu 

Student Success Center Offers Virtual Tutoring Services Via Zoom

The Galveston College Student Success Center is now offering virtual tutoring sessions with its in-house tutors via Zoom! 
 
 
Although NetTutor will continue to be the 24-hour online tutoring tool for students, the Student Success Center team realizes there is a group of students who have already built a rapport with the center’s in-house tutors.
 
In an effort to offer as many possibilities for student success, the Student Success Center will continue to offer personal support by placing in-house tutors in a virtual environment
 
via Zoom. Zoom is a video conferencing service that can be used to virtually meet with others. The basic package is free and may be subscribed to here.
 
Students who are interested in this service can email Dr. LaToya Mills-Thomas at [email protected]. She will contact the students’ requested tutors or a tutor that best fits their needs. Students must initiate this service via their Whitecaps email account to verify they are a Galveston College student. Tutors will tutor in one-hour increments. Students can schedule as many sessions as needed, depending upon the availability of the designated tutor.
 
Please contact Dr. Mills-Thomas at [email protected] with questions or to schedule a virtual tutoring session via Zoom.
 
 
 

Beginning Monday, March 23, all Galveston College classes will be online. Galveston College academic and student support services will also be available online, by email and/or by teleconference. All campus facilities will be closed to students and the general public.

 
 
 
 
Online Instruction
Students should log into their Canvas learning management system daily to check their assignments, grades and communication from instructors.
 
Those who are having trouble accessing Canvas or features within Canvas should reach out to the Distance Education department at [email protected] for assistance. Please include the following information:
 
  • Name
  • Phone number
  • Galveston College ID number
  • Description of the issue in Canvas
 
Replies to questions sent to [email protected] are sent to the students’ Whitecaps email address.
 
Students should communicate on a regular basis with their professors as much as needed to ensure that they are aware of any questions, concerns or issues.
 
 
 
Students new the online learning environment should take the Canvas New Student Orientation if they have not done so already. The orientation is a quick and easy way to get familiar with the functions of Canvas. The New Student Orientation is located at the top of the dashboard in the Whitecaps portal.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Whitecaps Email
Galveston College students should check their Whitecaps email several times daily. The College will make official announcements via Whitecaps email first. Students must use their Whitecaps email address to contact Galveston College advisers and staff. For help with email, contact [email protected] or visit https://gc.edu/student-services/access-your-student-email/.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Library and Learning Resources
Galveston College David Glenn Hunt Memorial Library services are accessible online. Students, faculty and staff can access academic eBooks to support curriculum, reference eBooks, leisure eBooks, article databases, eJournals, eMagazines, research guides, video tutorials and eCourse reserves. The library also has a live chat service available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Students can schedule individual online reference appointments, as well. All virtual services are accessible in one place for students, faculty and staff.
 
 
 
 
The Distance Education Library Resources Online Guide is designed to help students at a distance or taking online courses locate and use Galveston College library’s online resources and research tools. Students can access the guide at https://library.gc.edu/distance-education-library-resources. For assistance, contact [email protected] or view the library’s FAQ page https://gc.libanswers.com/. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Remote Student Services
The Galveston College Student Services team is here to help! All incoming calls and messages to Galveston College office numbers will be received via email. Student Services team members have been assigned schedules to monitor and return emails and phone calls.
 
Please use the following emails to contact campus offices:
 
Admissions/Registrar
 
Counseling and Advising Center
 
Financial Aid
 
Testing Center
 
Tutoring – Student Success Center 
 
Accessibility/Special Needs
 
Upward Bound 
 
Building Bridges to Success
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Continuing Education
 
 
 
 
 Academic Advising – The Galveston College Counseling and Advising Center will continue to offer academic advising services for students via telephone and email. To schedule an appointment, email [email protected] . For questions related to a particular program, please reach out to the instructor or the department coordinator for more information.
 
Accessibility/Special Needs – Galveston College provides accommodations for students with disabilities. Upon presentation of appropriate documentation of a disability, students may be granted reasonable accommodations for their courses. Students will continue to have support through a variety of communication methods such as phone calls, emails and virtual appointments. For questions related to accommodations, contact [email protected].
 
 
Google Chrome has extensions to assist students, as well.
 
 
Admissions and Registrar – All Admissions office and Registrar’s office services will be offered remotely. This includes transcript requests, registration, transcript evaluations, admissions applications, name change forms, declarations of residency, changes of program, changes of address, degree and certificate applications, appeals, releases of information and enrollment verification requests. For assistance, contact [email protected].
 
Building Bridges to Success – Building Bridges to Success team members will reach out to program participants with information on ways to access TRIO program services (academic advising, tutoring, personal counseling, FAFSA assistance, financial literacy, etc.). For more information, contact [email protected].
 
Financial Aid – All aspects and functions of the Financial Aid Office will remain intact. Financial aid applications will continue to be processed in the same manner as any year. Students should submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at fafsa.gov . For more information and assistance, contact [email protected].
 
Student Activities – All student activities and special events have been postponed. Spring semester athletic events have been canceled.
 
Student Housing – Student housing applications are being accepted for the 2020-2021 academic year. To apply online, visit https://gc.edu/student-housing/ . Deposits may be mailed to Galveston College Business Services, 4015 Avenue Q, Galveston, TX 77554 or paid by credit card via telephone at (409) 944-1215. (Please leave a call-back number.)
 
Technology – Galveston College Student Services is working to help find solutions and to assist students who have needs related to computer hardware and internet access.
 
 
wifi.xfinity.com hotspots across the country are available to anyone who needs them for free – including non-Xfinity internet subscribers. Once at a hotspot, students should select the “xfinitywifi” network name in the list of available hotspots and then launch a browser. (It works best if students download the app.) Galveston has a number of hotspots: https://hotspots.wifi.comcast.com/mobile/.
 
Two other low-cost options:
 
Please contact Financial Aid at [email protected] with questions related to computer hardware and/or internet access needs.
 
Testing – Galveston College has secured a new test-proctoring platform called Respondus, which allows staff to lock down the students’ browsers as they are proctored in a virtual environment to help maintain test integrity. It also allows the College to meet the needs of students with disabilities. Students with testing questions should contact [email protected].
 
Tutoring Services – Galveston College students will be able to receive tutoring through NetTutor, which is a 24-hour virtual tutoring service available to all students through their Canvas learning management system portals.
 
Upward Bound – Upward Bound team members will be reaching out to participants regarding remote access to TRIO program services (academic advising, tutoring, personal counseling, FAFSA assistance, financial literacy, etc.). For information, contact Priselda Perez at [email protected].
 
Veterans Services – The Financial Aid office offers assistance with VA benefits. Students will continue to have support through a variety of communication methods, such as phone calls, emails and virtual appointments. For assistance, contact Nikki Montoya at [email protected].
 
 
Galveston College will continue to monitor the rapidly changing situation and update the campus community as changes are made.

 

Remote Student Services

Out of an abundance of caution regarding Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), Galveston College has shifted to providing remote student services.

All incoming calls and messages to Galveston College office numbers will be received via email. Student Services team members have been assigned schedules to monitor and return emails and phone calls.

Please use the following emails to contact campus offices:
 
Admissions/Registrar – [email protected]
 

Counseling and Advising Center – [email protected]

Financial Aid – [email protected]

Testing Center – [email protected]

Tutoring – Student Success Center – [email protected]

Accessibility/Special Needs – [email protected]

Upward Bound – [email protected]

Building Bridges to Success – [email protected]

Academic Advising – The Galveston College Counseling and Advising Center will continue to offer academic advising services for students via telephone and email. To schedule an appointment, email [email protected] . For questions related to a particular program, please reach out to the instructor or the department coordinator for more information.

Accessibility/Special Needs – Galveston College provides accommodations for students with disabilities. Upon presentation of appropriate documentation of a disability, students may be granted reasonable accommodations for their courses. Students will continue to have support through a variety of communication methods such as phone calls, emails and virtual appointments. For questions related to accommodations, contact [email protected] .
 
 
 
 
Admissions and Registrar – All Admissions office and Registrar’s office services will be offered remotely. This includes transcript requests, registration, transcript evaluations, admissions applications, name change forms, declarations of residency, changes of program, changes of address, degree and certificate applications, appeals, releases of information and enrollment verification requests. For assistance, contact [email protected].
 
 
 
 
Building Bridges to Success – Building Bridges to Success team members will reach out to program participants with information on ways to access TRIO program services (academic advising, tutoring, personal counseling, FAFSA assistance, financial literacy, etc.). For more information, contact [email protected].
 
 
 
 
Financial Aid – All aspects and functions of the Financial Aid Office will remain intact. Financial aid applications will continue to be processed in the same manner as any year. Students should submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at fafsa.gov.  For more information and assistance, contact [email protected].
 
 

Student Activities – All student activities and special events have been postponed. Spring semester athletic events have been canceled.

Student Housing – Student housing applications are being accepted for the 2020-2021 academic year. To apply online, visit https://gc.edu/student-housing/ . Deposits may be mailed to Galveston College Business Services, 4015 Avenue Q, Galveston, TX 77554 or paid by credit card via telephone at ( 409) 944-1215 . (Please leave a call-back number.)

Technology – Galveston College Student Services is working to find solutions to assist students who have needs related to computer hardware and internet access. wifi.xfinity.com hotspots across the country are available to anyone who needs them for free – including non-Xfinity internet subscribers. Once at a hotspot, students should select the “xfinitywifi” network name in the list of available hotspots and then launch a browser. (It works best if students download the app.) Galveston has a number of hotspots: https://hotspots.wifi.comcast.com/mobile/.

Two other low-cost options:

Please contact Financial Aid at [email protected] with technology needs questions.

Testing – Galveston College has secured a new test-proctoring platform called Respondus , which allows staff to lock down the students’ browsers as they are proctored in a virtual environment to help maintain test integrity. It also allows the College to meet the needs of students with disabilities. Students with testing questions should contact [email protected].

Tutoring Services – Galveston College students will be able to receive tutoring through NetTutor, which is a 24-hour virtual tutoring service available to all students through their Canvas learning management system portals.

Upward Bound – Upward Bound team members will be reaching out to participants regarding remote access to TRIO program services (academic advising, tutoring, personal counseling, FAFSA assistance, financial literacy, etc.). For information, contact Priselda Perez at [email protected].

Veterans Services – The Financial Aid office offers assistance with VA benefits. Students will continue to have support through a variety of communication methods, such as phone calls, emails and virtual appointments. For assistance, contact Nikki Montoya at [email protected].

Whitecaps Email – Galveston College students should check their Whitecaps email several times daily. The College will make official announcements via Whitecaps email first. Students must use their Whitecaps email address to contact Galveston College advisers and staff. For help with email, contact [email protected] or visit https://gc.edu/student-services/access-your-student-email/.

 

The National Junior College Athletic Association has announced the suspension of all junior college athletic events for the remainder of the spring semester.  This effectively ends the Galveston College 2020 spring baseball and softball seasons.  In anticipation of next year’s season, student athletes should consult their coaching leadership regarding continued training and preparation for next year.

 Campus Events

All campus or special events scheduled to be held at Galveston College with the exception of Galveston College Board of Regents meetings are postponed until Monday, April 6.

Although there are no cases of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) at Galveston College, there are a number of cases that have been reported in the greater Houston area and now one in Galveston County. Consequently, out of an abundance of concern for our students, faculty, staff, and our community, Galveston College has determined to extend the 2020 spring break for students for one week, March 16-20. (No online or in-person classes will be held during this week.) This time will allow faculty and staff to prepare and coordinate planning for the remainder of the semester.

On Monday, March 23, Galveston College classes will resume, strictly in an online environment. It is hoped that face-to-face classes will resume on April 6. The College will continue to monitor the situation and confirm this date or extend online classes depending on the situation at that time. A determination will be made in the coming weeks about the ability to continue face-to-face classes for the remainder of the semester, hold final exams in person/on campus, and the ability to hold commencement as currently scheduled.

The Galveston College Board of Regents will meet as scheduled on Wednesday, March 18.

Faculty and Staff

Although students will receive an additional week of spring break (March 16-20), all full-time faculty and staff should report to campus on Monday, March 16. The week of March 16-20 will be used for faculty and staff to prepare and coordinate planning for the remainder of the semester. Galveston College leadership will advise faculty and staff on additional protocols via Galveston College email. Part-time employees are not to report to work unless contacted and instructed to do so by their supervisor.

Student Workers

Student workers are not expected to return to campus to work until Monday, April 6. The College will continue to monitor this situation and confirm this date or extend the date depending on the situation.

Self-Monitoring / Self-Isolation / Self-Quarantine

If a student or an employee who has traveled outside of the U.S. during the last 14 days or who has traveled to an area in the U.S. that has had reported COVID-19 cases, this individual may need to self-isolate or self-quarantine and should follow all Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations. Students who choose to self-isolate should notify their instructor. Employees electing to self-isolate should notify their supervisor and Human Resources.

Student Travel

All Galveston College sponsored student travel (including athletic travel) is suspended until Monday, April 6. The College will continue to monitor the situation and confirm this date or extend the suspension of travel depending on the situation at that time.

Employee Travel

All travel for Galveston College employees is suspended until Monday, April 6, unless it is determined to be mission-critical or health-critical and has been approved by the College leadership.

Employees are responsible for canceling all travel plans and reservations. Please note that the College will work with faculty and staff regarding incurred expenses for conferences or events that have been canceled or for conferences or events where the College has suspended travel.

Precautions to Continue to Take

  •  Wash your hands for 20 seconds
  • Use hand sanitizer
  • Avoid shaking hands
  • Maintain a good “social distance” between you and others
  • Disinfect frequently touched objects using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe
  • Stay home when you are sick and avoid close contact with those who are sick
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

College leadership will continue to monitor this rapidly changing situation. The College will issue additional updates as the situation evolves. We greatly appreciate your support as we continue to work with health and government officials to protect your safety and health.

 

Galveston College is working with local, state and federal partners to closely monitor Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), formerly known as 2019 Novel Coronavirus. This is a rapidly evolving situation. For up-to-date information and available resources, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.

There are currently no cases of COVID-19 in Galveston County or the Galveston College community.

The safety of our Galveston College students, faculty, staff and community is paramount, and we realize that the situation can quickly change.

Galveston College officials will meet on Friday, March 13, to discuss strategic planning regarding the return of students after spring break. The college will make an informed decision based on recommendations from health officials, and we will provide another update.

Read and follow information posted on campus explaining hand washing techniques and other signage about healthy habits to help prevent viruses from spreading.

Utilize on campus hand sanitation stations.

On the recommendation of the Centers for Disease Control, anyone who begins experiencing fever, cough or difficulty breathing is reminded to contact their primary healthcare provider and remain home until they are fever-free for 24 hours without the aid of medication.

The college is monitoring CDC travel alerts. At this time, no study-abroad programs for summer 2020 are impacted. We are prepared to make adjustments to our approach as circumstances warrant.

Check this web page regularly for updates.

Read and follow information posted on campus explaining hand washing techniques and other signage about healthy habits to help prevent viruses from spreading.

Utilize on campus hand sanitation stations.

On the recommendation of the Centers for Disease Control, anyone who begins experiencing fever, cough or difficulty breathing is reminded to contact their primary healthcare provider and remain home until they are fever-free for 24 hours without the aid of medication.

The college is monitoring CDC travel alerts. At this time, no study-abroad programs for summer 2020 are impacted. We are prepared to make adjustments to our approach as circumstances warrant.

Check this web page regularly for updates.

COVID-19 Cases in the U.S.

The CDC is responding to an outbreak of respiratory illness caused by COVID-19. Cases have been identified in a growing number of other locations internationally, including the U.S. The link below will direct you to a map that represents cases detected and tested in the U.S. through U.S. public health surveillance systems since January 21, 2020. This includes both confirmed and presumptive positive cases reported to the CDC.

Map of COVID-19 Cases in U.S.
 

 

CDC Updates

You can use this section to see live updates