University of Hawaii West Oahu Seal

Bulletin No. 2

Date/Time sent: 05/26/2020 7:41 am

Aloha mai!

Your campus workgroups have been working throughout the past week taking inventory, doing research, discussing/strategizing, planning and preparing. We are guided by the work that is being done at the system-level as well as using local, State, and CDC Guidelines. This link takes you to the CDC page prepared for “Colleges, Universities, and Higher Learning: Plan, Prepare, Respond”.

See the attached “Workplace Decision-Tree” that helps us in our planning and preparation activities. We reference the CDC guidelines throughout our planning and preparation:
The UH-System (and UH West Oʻahu) has chosen a moderate risk level in re-opening our campus: “Small in-person classes, activities, and events. Individuals remain spaced at least 6 feet apart and do not share objects (e.g., hybrid virtual and in-person class structures or staggered/rotated scheduling to accommodate smaller class sizes).”

Here, in summary, is an update of our tasks as of Monday, May 25, 2020.

CORE: We are discussing and planning for:

  • Return of employees to campus. Note: Modifying our practices.
  • Training for all employees on health and safety protocols.
  • Fiscal Year 2021 Budget concerns.

Communications: We are preparing a web page that will, in real time, update campus on our reopening processes as well as archive our activities. Communications team working on appropriate campus signage.

Workgroup: FEIS (Facilities, Equipment & Supplies, IT, Safety/Sanitization)

  • Classroom Mapping DRAFT #1 has been developed and Physical Distancing Guidelines DRAFT #1 has been developed. Both are being reviewed by campus execs and system officers.
  • IT processing purchases through procurement.
  • Facilities installing sneeze guard shields.
  • Auxiliary ordering non-medical protection materials (facial shields, masks, etc.) and cleaning supplies. Will be making our own high-grade hand sanitizers and wipes.
  • Discussions with scheduling, Academic Affairs, and facilities/sanitization has begun.

Workgroup: SAS (Student and Academic Services)

  • Current ACTION focused on recruitment of new students and registering continuing students.
  • Current discussions with MMTL on Professional Development for instructional faculty, student assistants, advisers and supporting staff.
  • Current discussions with MMTL to pilot a possible of 3 hybrid Summer Session II courses.
  • Current discussions with MMTL and FEIS on scheduling for fall 2020.

Workgroup: MMTL (Multi-modalities/Teaching and Learning)

  • Developing common terminology for 5 modes of course delivery
  • With SAS co-developing PD
  • Working to develop job descriptions and professional development for student tutors, student instructional assistants, student IT assistants, and student ADA assistants.

Mahalo nui to all CORE and Workgroup members – mahalo for your commitment to making our campus safe! Mahalo to all faculty and staff for being alert and practicing safe behaviors while on campus as well as being patient and supportive as you continue to work remotely!

E mālama pono!
Maenette Benham