In the wake of COVID-19 Coronavirus cases rising in Colorado, Trinidad State has taken action early to mitigate risk with input from the Colorado Community College System and in consultation with health experts. Currently, Trinidad State will remain open and continue to carefully monitor the situation while at the same time move to reduce health risks by providing more online learning opportunities at our Trinidad and Alamosa campuses.

“The health of our students, faculty and staff is our highest priority,” said Trinidad State President Dr. Rhonda M. Epper. “One of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19 is to practice social distancing, and that guides our plan. In addition to transitioning many classes to online learning, we have increased attention on cleaning and sanitizing surfaces and have raised awareness about the importance of washing hands and staying away from others at the first hint of illness. We do not want to disrupt the learning process needlessly, but we are ready to change course should the coronavirus find its way onto one of our campuses.”

Spring Break, the week of March 23, will happen as scheduled. When classes resume on March 30, as many classes as possible will be taught online. Faculty and instructors will prepare immediately for remote/online delivery. By March 27, faculty and instructors will notify their students how to access their classes. Those who do not have computer access at home will be able to use computers located in the libraries and computer labs on campus. By decreasing the number of students and faculty on campus, the college expects to reduce the chance of spreading illness.

Programs, such as welding and nursing clinicals, that require hands-on classwork and face-to-face instruction will continue to meet on campus. For classes offered at area high schools, the college will work closely with those schools districts to continue instruction in the most efficient and safe way.

Softball and Baseball contests scheduled in Trinidad this weekend have been canceled because of travel restrictions put in place by the visiting teams. “We continue to monitor the NJCAA COVID-19 updates and will comply with their guidance unless state and local health officials direct a more stringent approach,” stated Epper.

Following guidance by the Governor of Colorado and the Colorado Community College System, TSJC will be evaluating large events on a case-by-case basis. The college has canceled a yearly event for Trinidad area middle school students that is normally held at the Trinidad Campus. Girls in the Middle (GIM) for girls and Guys Reaching Incredible Potential (GRIP) for boys introduces young people to careers in science-related fields. Other gatherings of large groups may be canceled as well.

Trinidad State will continue planning graduation ceremonies, scheduled for May 8, 2020 in Trinidad and Alamosa. If there are changes the college will move quickly to notify students so family members will be able to modify their plans. As always, TSJC plans to provide a live stream on the internet for those who cannot attend in person.

“We will continue to adjust our plans and make changes as we get more information,” said Epper. “We will balance the needs of students, faculty and staff, making every effort to teach students while at the same time striving to keep everyone safe.”