ACC Response to COVID-19

March 17, 2022
ACC Mask Mandate Lifted

Alpena Community College President Dr. Don MacMaster released a statement on Wednesday, March 17, 2022 in support of lifting the heretofore mandatory mask policy, effective immediately. The new mask policy will contain the following components:

Mask wearing for students, staff, and the community will no longer be mandatory in campus buildings.
Students and staff who want to continue wearing masks are welcome and encouraged to do so.
Instructors who want to mandate mask wearing for students in their classrooms will have the authority to do so.

These new policies have been put in place after careful consideration and judgement based on the most recent information and recommendations from District Health Department #4. ACC will continue to closely monitor the COVID-19 situation, work with local health officials, and will continue to make appropriate changes if necessary.

Students and employees who are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 should still stay home in order to protect compromised individuals and help keep ACC a safe and healthy place to work and learn for all.

August 31, 2021
Masks Required and Stay Home if You Feel Sick

Currently ACC requires all students, staff, faculty, and visitors to wear a face covering that covers the mouth and nose in any ACC building. (A list of exemptions can be found on the ACC COVID website.) This requirement will be reviewed periodically based on the latest information available and will be adjusted as appropriate.

Any student or employee who experiences unusual symptoms should stay home and contact the Dean of Students (students) or the Human Resources Office (employees). Students should also contact their instructors to make arrangements for coursework. Also, we suggest contacting a healthcare provider. Symptoms may include a temperature of 100.4 or higher, an uncontrolled cough, shortness of breath; loss of taste or smell, muscle aches, sore throat, severe headache, diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

Additionally, ACC recommends that any employee who has had close contact or potential exposure to a confirmed case of COVID-19 should contact the Human Resources Office for more information; students should contact the Dean of Students and communicate with their instructors regarding coursework.

In the event there is a confirmed case of COVID-19 in an employee or student, ACC will follow the guidance of District Health Department #4.

Alpena Community College continues to closely monitor the COVID-19 situation including working with local health officials and tracking guidance from the Center for Disease Control (CDC).

It is the shared responsibility of the entire ACC community to protect not only their health but the health of those who are most vulnerable for serious illness and death from COVID-19. Following all of these measures will help ACC maintain an in-person fall semester.

August 11, 2021
ACC Requiring Masks Indoors Beginning August 23

Alpena Community College continues to closely monitor the COVID-19 situation including working with local health officials and tracking guidance from the Center for Disease Control (CDC). Based on the most recent information available, ACC has now determined its safety procedures for the start of Fall Semester.

Beginning Monday, August 23, ACC will temporarily require all students, staff, faculty, and visitors to wear a face covering that covers the mouth and nose in any ACC building. This requirement will be reviewed periodically based on the latest information available and will be adjusted as appropriate.

Exceptions where a face covering is not required include when you are:

Indoors in a single enclosed private office or your residence suite or apartment.
Eating or drinking.
Alone in a private motor vehicle or utility vehicle used for College business.
A child under the age of two years or someone who is unable to remove a face covering without assistance.
Required to wear assigned respiratory protection for the job tasks you are performing
Granted a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA); for information on requesting such accommodations, please contact Nancy Seguin, Dean of Student Services. Employees requesting an accommodation should contact Carolyn Daoust, Director of Human Resources.
Engaged in physical activities or recreation in a distanced manner.
Involved in an activity, including certain types of instruction, where wearing a face covering may not be feasible or present a safety hazard provided that a risk assessment is performed and reviewed by appropriate ACC staff.
Communicating with someone who is hearing impaired or otherwise disabled and where the ability to see the mouth is essential to communication; in such circumstances, alternatives such as clear face coverings and other accommodations will be explored.
Giving a speech for broadcast or instruction to an audience while maintaining physical distance of at least six feet from others.
Receiving a service for which temporary removal of the face covering is necessary to perform the service.

It is the shared responsibility of the entire ACC community to protect not only their health but the health of those who are most vulnerable for serious illness and death from COVID-19.

Other preventive measures — including frequent hand washing and routine disinfection of high touch surfaces — need to be maintained even while wearing a face covering. Following all of these measures will help ACC maintain an in-person fall semester.

July 28, 2021
ACC Continues to Monitor COVID-19 Developments

New guidance from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all people in areas of substantial or high transmission rates should wear masks indoors regardless of vaccination status. Alpena County is currently designated as having a substantial level of community transmission. This new recommendation is aimed at reducing the spread of the Delta variant of the COVID-19 virus.

ACC continues to monitor the COVID-19 situation locally, state-wide, and nationally, and will update the ACC community as soon as possible if/when our mask and social distancing policies change.

Additionally, ACC encourages employees, students, and visitors to be vaccinated. District Health Department #4 provides vaccination events in Northeast Michigan. ACC is working with the district health department to offer vaccinations at the Welcome Back Bash on the Alpena Campus Wednesday, September 8.

The CDC ensures the safety of vaccines and the CDC website contains information on monitoring vaccine safety, myths and facts about the COVID-19 vaccines, and what to expect after you’ve been vaccinated.

May 17, 2021
ACC Adjusts Campus Mask Policy

Based on updated guidance from the CDC and Governor Whitmer, ACC is modifying its policy on wearing masks. This change goes into effect Monday, May 17, 2021.

Vaccinated ACC employees, students, and community members can choose to not wear masks indoors.
Unvaccinated ACC employees, students, and community members are required to continue wearing masks indoors.
All people will continue to wear masks in classrooms.

All ACC employees and students are encouraged to maintain precautionary measures including social distancing and hand washing.

January 27, 2021
Reminder on COVID Safety for Spring Semester

Now that ACC is back to in-person instruction we are reminding students and employees about COVID safety on ACC campuses.

Anyone who experiences unusual symptoms (including a temperature of 100.4 or higher, an uncontrolled cough, shortness of breath; loss of taste or smell, muscle aches, sore throat, severe headache, diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain) is encouraged to stay home, contact the Dean of Students or the Human Resources Office, and contact a healthcare provider.

Students should continue to communicate with their instructors regarding coursework.

Additionally, ACC recommends that anyone who has tested positive for COVID-19 or had close contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19 should contact the Dean of Students or Human Resources Office, self-quarantine, and contact a healthcare provider.

In the event there is a confirmed case of COVID-19 in an employee or student, ACC will follow the guidance of District Health Department #4. ACC is prepared to offer every course in alternative delivery methods so that students can continue their coursework with a minimum of disruption.

ACC has taken a number of actions to keep ACC facilities safe. Some of those actions include:

Educating employees on safety protocols and requiring the completion of a daily health screening.
Requiring facial coverings in most indoor areas.
Placing more hand sanitizing stations around campus.
Reconfiguring classrooms and public spaces on campus to accommodate social distancing.
Adding remote/online course delivery options.
Implementing an enhanced cleaning schedule for classroom, including providing disinfectant wipes for students.

December 14, 2020
Spring Semester Courses to Start Remotely

With Fall Semester wrapping up ACC is now looking ahead to Spring Semester. Based on current COVID-19 infection rates in Michigan and the likelihood that some in the ACC community will travel for the holidays, it is desirable to minimize the number of students on campus at the beginning of January. With this in mind, ACC officials have approved the following plan.

For students:

Registration activities January 4-8 will continue with added remote options; returning students can register online and new students can participate in remote orientation sessions. Most faculty will be available for in-person advising; students should schedule appointments if possible. The Business Office, Financial Aid Office, and Registrar’s Office in Van Lare Hall will be open on a limited basis for walk-in traffic.

Spring Semester courses will start January 11 but the first week will be delivered remotely. (Some occupational program courses will meet in person as usual: Health Care (Nursing), UTT, Concrete Tech, Welding, Machine Tool, Apprenticeship, Auto Service, CAD/Engineering Tech, CIS/Computer Programming (MTH 221 C++ Programming), and the EPT and EST courses in the Bachelor in Science Electrical Systems Technology program.)

All in-person courses will resume normal delivery beginning January 18. Students should contact instructors to verify their schedules and course delivery methods. Students who need access to the Internet or a laptop computer should contact the Office of Information Technology at 989.358.7374 or helpdesk@alpenacc.edu.

For ACC employees:

Spring Startup activities on Monday, January 4, will be offered remotely for employees who wish to work from home that day. Unless otherwise dictated by emergency orders, all ACC employees will return to campus by January 5.

December 8, 2020
Fall Courses Stay Remote Through End of Semester

According to the December 7, 2020, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services emergency order, ACC courses will continue to be offered remotely through December 20. Some hands-on occupational courses will be able to meet in person to finish training.

All students should continue to communicate regularly with instructors on how Fall Semester courses — including finals — will finish.

The Library remains open at reduced capacity.

December 1, 2020
ACC Announces Plan for the End of Fall Semester

Currently ACC courses will be offered remotely until at least December 9. In light of the COVID-19 situation, many are wondering how ACC will finish Fall Semester. While there are still many unknowns — such as when the governor and health department will say we can open again — ACC is planning to finish the semester strongly no matter what the circumstances.

Following is the plan for finishing Fall Semester.

ACC plans to resume in-person instruction beginning December 9. This may change depending on a number of circumstances so students should stay in regular contact with instructors.
When ACC resumes in-person instruction, each instructor can choose to stay with remote teaching or return to campus to finish classes and finals in person. Social distancing and mask wearing will still be required. Students should contact instructors on a regular basis to determine how their classes will be offered.
In case ACC is not allowed to go back to in-person instruction on December 9, ACC instructors are also preparing to finish the semester remotely.
All instructors will communicate directly with students through Blackboard and ACC email about what will happen with classes on December 9 and beyond.

ACC will keep the ACC community informed when more information is available. Thanks for your patience and determination to successfully finish the semester.

November 17, 2020
ACC Switches to All Remote Courses Wednesday, Nov. 18

As outlined in the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Emergency Order (“Gatherings and Face Mask Order,” dated November 15, 2020), Alpena Community College is transitioning to primarily remote course offerings as of Wednesday, November 18. The change is for three weeks, until December 9, 2020.

To comply with the latest state guidance, ACC will do the following:

Courses will be moved to remote delivery as of Wednesday, November 18. Students should immediately contact their instructors for the latest information on how coursework will continue. Students will receive information from their instructors via ACC email and Blackboard.
All online classes will continue as scheduled.
Nursing clinicals and lab courses will continue to meet as scheduled.
Alpena Campus buildings will be locked except for the north entrance to the Newport Center adjacent to the Library and the main entrance to Van Lare Hall. All public activities are cancelled and the public is not allowed in ACC buildings. All students entering buildings will have to sign in and state their purpose for being on campus.
The Oscoda Campus Student Services Center remains open to students. Staff will be on hand to help with class scheduling and registration.
ACC has laptops available for rental by ACC students. Students should contact the Office of Information Technology (989.358.7374, helpdesk@alpenacc.edu) to reserve a laptop.
Access to student services (including the Student Success Center, tutoring, proofreading services, and workshops) will be restricted. Contact the Dean of Students (989.358.7212, seguinn@alpenacc.edu) for more information. For tutoring and proofreading services contact Colleen Jacobs at 989.358.7270 or jacobsc@alpenacc.edu.
ACC employees are encouraged to work from home if possible and/or take other measures to reduce the number of people on campus. Supervisors will communicate with supervisees to develop work schedules, expectations, etc.
Laptops are also available in limited quantities for ACC employees working from home. Employees should contact the Office of Information Technology (989.358.7374, helpdesk@alpenacc.edu) to reserve a laptop.
Enrollment activities, including orientation, registration, advising, financial aid advising, etc., will continue either remotely or on an appointment basis. Students should contact the Admissions Office, Financial Aid Office, and the Registrar’s Office for more information and to make appointments.
The ACC Board of Trustees meeting scheduled for Thursday, November 19, will be held remotely via Webex.

For Everyone:

If you are exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 (a fever of 100.4 or higher, respiratory issues like cough or shortness of breath) or you have been in direct contact with an individual diagnosed with COVID-19, please do not come to either ACC campus. Instead, call your healthcare provider and follow the CDC guidelines for self-quarantining.
Effective social distancing helps reduce the transmission of the COVOD-19 virus. ACC has taken action to limit close contact between people.
While some ACC employees will continue to use the Alpena and Oscoda campuses the College asks that the public not visit our campuses. If you are experiencing any other cold or flu-like symptoms, please do not come to campus.
If you have general questions about ACC operations, please call the College’s main phone number (989.356.9021) or visit the ACC COVID-19 webpage.

For All Students:

Most courses will be offered in a remote format by Wednesday, November 18. Students will receive information from their instructors via ACC email and Blackboard.
ACC students should complete their remote course offerings at their home or other locations. Students without a home computer or internet access should contact the Office of Information Technology (989.358.7374, helpdesk@alpenacc.edu).
All online classes will continue as scheduled.
Any student experiencing food insecurity can contact Lisa Blumenthal at 989.358.7296 or blumentl@alpenacc.edu to arrange for food from the ACC Food Pantry.

For Faculty:

Any faculty member exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 (a fever of 100.4 or higher, respiratory issues like cough or shortness of breath) or who have been in direct contact with an individual diagnosed with COVID-19, please do not come to either ACC campus. Instead, call your healthcare provider and follow the CDC guidelines for self-quarantining. Please contact the Vice President of Instruction and the Office of Human Resources.
For technical help with online/remote courses, please contact the Office of Information Technology at helpdesk@alpenacc.edu.

For Administrators and Staff:

Any administrator or staff member exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 (a fever of 100.4 or higher, respiratory issues like cough or shortness of breath) or who have been in direct contact with an individual diagnosed with COVID-19, please do not come to either ACC campus. Instead, call your healthcare provider and follow the CDC guidelines for self-quarantining. Please contact the Office of Human Resources.

List of Changes/Cancellations:

The November 19, 2020, ACC Board of Trustees meeting has been changed to remote delivery via Webex.
Park Arena is closed until December 9.
The Wellness Center and locker rooms remain open to students and the public. The Wellness Center will follow executive orders for gyms and fitness centers including patrons signing in for contact tracing, mask wearing is required, equipment is spaced 12 feet apart, and occupancy is limited.
The ACC Library is closed to the public until December 9 but remains open to students. Library hours of operation: 7:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday through Wednesday and 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thursdays; and 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Fridays. Weekend hours are: 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays.
Library testing services are available by appointment.
The ACC Bookstore will be closed to students and the public but will accessible via phone or email. Contact Bill Matzke at 989.358.7259 or matzkew@alpenacc.edu.
The Testing Center hours will change. Please contact the Testing Center at 989.358.7209 or matzkeb@alpenacc.edu for more information.
Men’s and Women’s basketball practices are cancelled until December 9.
Volleyball team practice is cancelled until December 9.
The Lumberjack Shack (on-campus food service) is closed until December 9.
Physical access to the ACC Food Pantry will not be available but any student experiencing food insecurity can contact Lisa Blumenthal at 989.358.7296 or blumentl@alpenacc.edu to arrange for food.

ACC will continue to update the ACC COVID-19 web page to provide the latest information to students, employees, and the public.

November 13, 2020
ACC COVID-19 Report and Precautions Reminder

As of today, Friday, November 13, 2020, Alpena Community College is aware of four new COVID-19 cases: two students, one adjunct faculty member, and one staff member. The adjunct faculty member teaches only remote classes so no students or others have been exposed. The COVID-positive students are quarantining until November 24 and 27, respectively. All students and staff having had contact with the infected students have been contacted and encouraged to monitor for any symptoms that may arise. The COVID-positive staff member and all people who may have come in contact with that person have been advised to quarantine for 14 days and monitor for symptoms.

The Alpena and Oscoda campuses continue to operate in Phase Three of ACC COVID-19 Preparedness and Response Plan which includes face-to-face instruction with mask wearing and social distancing.

If you suspect you may have been exposed to the COVID-19 virus or develop symptoms including a temperature of 100.4 or higher, an uncontrolled cough, shortness of breath; loss of taste or smell, muscle aches, sore throat, severe headache, diarrhea, vomiting, or abdominal pain, you should stay home, contact Nancy Seguin, Dean of Students, 989.358.7212, and consider contacting a healthcare provider.

COVID-19 testing is currently available through Walgreens pharmacy (989.354.8784, 1011 M-32, Alpena, please make appointments online at Walgreens.com). Testing is also available through Alcona Health Center (989.356.4049, 1185 US-23, Alpena; please call ahead to make arrangements).

For continuing information on ACC-related COVID cases check out ACC’s COVID-19 dashboard webpage.

ACC recommends taking action to help limit the spread of COVID-19, even if staff members or students are not experiencing symptoms:

Wear a mask (covering mouth and nose) while in public places or if people who do not live with you must visit your home.
Practice social distancing (maintaining a distance of 6 feet apart).
Practice frequent handwashing (using soap for 20 seconds or hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol).
Follow capacity restrictions of social gatherings.
Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or with the inside of your elbow and immediately wash your hands.
Stay home if you are sick; you can also get tested.

Thank you for understanding that, due to medical privacy laws, we are not able to release the names of the individuals with COVID-19. We will continue to communicate changes and updates with you. With your participation, we believe we can maintain a safe environment while also providing quality education.

For answers to your COVID-19 questions, contact District Health Department #4 at 800.221.0294, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services COVID-19 Hotline at 888.535.6136, or visit Michigan.gov/Coronavirus.

November 6, 2020
ACC COVID-19 Quarantining Report and Precautions Reminder

Since Monday, November 2, 2020, no new COVID-19 cases have been reported to Alpena Community College. The Alpena and Oscoda campuses continue to operate in Phase Three of the ACC COVID-19 Preparedness and Response Plan which includes face-to-face instruction with mask wearing and social distancing.

Please be aware that the group of students who began quarantining on Monday, October 26, will be cleared to return to campus on Monday, November 9.

For continuing information on ACC-related COVID cases check out ACC’s COVID-19 dashboard webpage.

ACC recommends taking action to help limit the spread of COVID-19, even if staff members or students are not experiencing symptoms:

Wear a mask (covering mouth and nose) while in public places or if people who do not live with you must visit your home.
Practice social distancing (maintaining a distance of 6 feet apart).
Practice frequent hand washing (using soap for 20 seconds or hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol).
Follow capacity restrictions of social gatherings.
Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or with the inside of your elbow and immediately wash your hands.
Stay home if you are sick; you can also get tested.

November 2, 2020
ACC Reports New COVID-19 Exposure and Quarantining

On Monday, November 2, Alpena Community College learned of another positive COVID-19 case on the Alpena Campus. That student received a positive test on Friday, October 30, while being quarantined at their off-campus apartment as part of the COVID case reported on Monday, October 26. The student reported symptoms beginning around October 27.

The two roommates of the positive student, who are also ACC students, are considered to have close contact with the infected student and have been told to self-quarantine for 14 days (November 17).

ACC has notified the students and instructors in the courses attended by the two roommates. Those students have been encouraged to monitor for COVID-19 symptoms and practice social distancing and mask wearing in all public places.

ACC’s Alpena and Oscoda campuses remain open at this time and classes continue to operate on their regular schedules. We are working closely with District Health Department #4 to identify close contacts of school associated cases of COVID-19. Anyone identified as a close contact will be notified by the health department as a part of the COVID-19 investigation process. Please answer the phone if the health department contacts you, as a contact tracer may be trying to reach you with important information.

For continuing information on ACC-related COVID cases check out ACC’s COVID-19 dashboard webpage.

ACC recommends taking action to help limit the spread of COVID-19, even if staff members or students are not experiencing symptoms:

Wear a mask (covering mouth and nose) while in public places or if people who do not live with you must visit your home.
Practice social distancing (maintaining a distance of 6 feet apart).
Practice frequent handwashing (using soap for 20 seconds or hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol).
Follow capacity restrictions of social gatherings.
Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or with the inside of your elbow and immediately wash your hands.
Stay home if you are sick; you can also get tested.

October 27, 2020
Update on ACC COVID-19 Exposure and Quarantining

As first reported Monday, October 26, Alpena Community College is taking action to address a positive COVID-19 case on campus. All of the students and employees who may have been exposed to the infected student have been identified and instructed to self-quarantine for 14 days (November 6). Please note those students and employees will not be allowed back to ACC before the end of the quarantine period even if they test negative for the virus, which was reported yesterday. Arrangements have been made for those quarantined students to continue their coursework remotely.

COVID-19 testing is currently available through Walgreens pharmacy (989.354.8784, 1011 M-32, Alpena, please make appointment online at Walgreens.com). Testing is also available through Alcona Health Center (989.356.4049, 1185 US-23, Alpena; please call ahead to make arrangements).

Anyone in the ACC community who suspects they may have been exposed to the COVID-19 virus or are showing symptoms should contact Nancy Seguin, Dean of Students (989.358.7212) or Steven Fosgard, Vice President of Instruction (989.358.7458).

For continuing information on ACC-related COVID cases check out ACC’s COVID-19 dashboard webpage.

ACC recommends taking action to help limit the spread of COVID-19, even if staff members or students are not experiencing symptoms:

Wear a mask (covering mouth and nose) while in public places or if people who do not live with you must visit your home.
Practice social distancing (maintaining a distance of 6 feet apart).
Practice frequent handwashing (using soap for 20 seconds or hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol).
Follow capacity restrictions of social gatherings.
Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or with the inside of your elbow and immediately wash your hands.
Stay home if you are sick; you can also get tested.

October 26, 2020
ACC COVID-19 Report

Today Alpena Community College learned of an ACC student who has tested positive for COVID-19. The student’s exposure date is unknown, but they began showing symptoms late last week. The student was tested on Friday, October 23, and received the positive test result today, Monday, October 26. District Health Department #4 has been notified.

The student physically attended ACC courses at the Alpena Campus during the week of October 19-23. ACC and District Health Department #4 are in the process of contacting the instructors and students who may have been exposed to the infected student. Those who may have been exposed will be required by ACC to self-quarantine for up to 14 days and are encouraged to get COVID-19 testing. Anyone showing a negative test result may be allowed to resume attending courses in person.

In addition, ACC has made temporary arrangements for an adjunct instructor to cover for a faculty member who may have been exposed and is now self-quarantining but has yet to be tested. Students in the faculty member’s other courses will also be notified of the potential exposure.

ACC’s Alpena and Oscoda campuses remain open at this time and classes continue to operate on their regular schedules. We are working closely with District Health Department #4 to identify Close Contacts of School Associated Cases of COVID-19. Anyone identified as a Close Contact will be notified by the health department as a part of the COVID-19 investigation process. Please answer the phone if the health department contacts you, as a contact tracer may be trying to reach you with important information.

For continuing information on ACC-related COVID cases check out ACC’s COVID-19 dashboard webpage.

ACC recommends taking action to help limit the spread of COVID-19, even if staff members or students are not experiencing symptoms:

Wear a mask (covering mouth and nose) while in public places or if people who do not live with you must visit your home.
Practice social distancing (maintaining a distance of 6 feet apart).
Practice frequent handwashing (using soap for 20 seconds or hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol).
Follow capacity restrictions of social gatherings.
Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or with the inside of your elbow and immediately wash your hands.
Stay home if you are sick; you can also get tested.

October 21, 2020
ACC COVID-19 Report

In the past week Alpena Community College learned of an ACC student who has been confirmed to be infected with COVID-19.

The student, who lives in Grayling, was exposed to the virus at a Grayling activity on Thursday, October 8, 2020, began showing symptoms over the weekend of October 10-11, 2020, was tested on Monday, October 12, and immediately began self-quarantining. The student’s test came back positive on Tuesday, October 13. That student did not physically attend any ACC-related activities after exposure. ACC was notified of the situation and the student is continuing to work on their courses remotely.

ACC’s Alpena and Oscoda campuses remain open at this time and classes continue to operate on their regular schedules. We are working closely with District Health Department #4 to identify Close Contacts of School Associated Cases of COVID-19. Anyone identified as a Close Contact will be notified by the health department as a part of the COVID-19 investigation process. Please answer the phone if the health department contacts you, as a contact tracer may be trying to reach you with important information.

For continuing information on ACC-related COVID cases check out ACC’s COVID-19 dashboard webpage.

ACC recommends taking action to help limit the spread of COVID-19, even if staff members or students are not experiencing symptoms:

Wear a mask (covering mouth and nose) while in public places or if people who do not live with you must visit your home.
Practice social distancing (maintaining a distance of 6 feet apart).
Practice frequent handwashing (using soap for 20 seconds or hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol).
Follow capacity restrictions of social gatherings.
Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or with the inside of your elbow and immediately wash your hands.
Stay home if you are sick; you can also get tested.

October 6, 2020
Reminder of COVID-19 Precautions

The following message was sent by Jay Walterreit, Director of Public Information & Marketing, to all ACC employees and students on Tuesday, October 6.

As we work through our sixth week of Fall Semester courses ACC would like to remind our campus communities about observing COVID-19 safety precautions. Maintaining these safety precautions is imperative as we all strive to prevent an outbreak on campus.

All ACC employees and students should practice the following:

Anyone with a temperature of 100.4 or higher, an uncontrolled cough, shortness of breath; loss of taste or smell, muscle aches, sore throat, severe headache, diarrhea, vomiting, or abdominal pain should stay home, contact an ACC representative, and consider contacting a healthcare provider. ACC employees should contact the Human Resources Office and students should contact the Dean of Students.

Anyone who has reason to believe they were exposed to the COVID-19 virus should stay home, contact an ACC representative, and consider contacting a healthcare provider.

Face coverings are required indoors, including classrooms, hallways, and all public gathering places. This requirement remains in effect regardless of the Michigan Supreme Court’s ruling on Governor Whitmer’s emergency powers.

Social distancing (at least six feet apart) is required in all indoor spaces.

Frequent hand washing is encouraged. The College has also placed a number of hand sanitizing stations around campuses.

Employees must complete a daily health screening.

Faculty and staff are asked to report any information from students about possible exposures or symptoms to Steve Fosgard, Vice President of Instruction, or Nancy Seguin, Dean of Students.

Drive-through COVID-19 testing is available on certain days through Alcona Health Center (989-356-4049, ext. 3832) and Thunder Bay Community Health Services (989-733-6827). Check the District Health Department #4 website for more testing opportunities.

As Fall Semester continues it is imperative that all ACC employees and students adhere to the above guidelines so that face-to-face instruction can continue.

ACC staff were invited to view a virtual presentation from theSeptember 23, 2020
District Health Department COVID-19 Response Presentation

ACC staff were invited to view a virtual presentation from the District Health Department #4 regarding public health's role in the response to coronavirus.
COVID-19 Response Presentation - PDF
COVID-19 Response Presentation - WebEx

September 17, 2020

ACC Urges Employees and Students to Follow COVID-19 Precautions

District Health Department #4 recently distributed a media release warning of a possible COVID-19 public exposure event this past weekend. According to the DHD release, individuals at the event have potentially been exposed to COVID-19.

Recently ACC became aware that at least one ACC employee and two students attended that event. Any ACC employees or students who attended the event are asked to call District Health Department #4 at 989.358.7904 immediately and to report any signs of illness, to get tested as soon as possible, and to self-quarantine at home through September 26.

Furthermore, anyone who has potentially been exposed to someone showing COVID-19 symptoms or are themselves showing COVID-19 symptoms should immediately do the following:

ACC employees:

Report their symptoms to the Human Resources Office (989.358.7211, daoustc@alpenacc.edu)
Self-isolate for 14 days from the first exposure or when symptoms started
Consider getting COVID-19 testing
Faculty and staff are also asked to report any information from students about possible exposures or symptoms to Steve Fosgard, Vice President of Instruction(fosgards@alpenacc.edu), or Nancy Seguin, Dean of Students (seguinn@alpenacc.edu).

ACC students:

Contact all of their instructors to let them know they’ve been exposed and will not be attending courses in person.
For face-to-face courses, ask about alternative content delivery methods

Self-isolate for 14 days from the first exposure or when symptoms started. Residents of College Park Apartments should contact Apartment Manager Cindy DeRocher at 989.358.7394 for more information.

Consider getting COVID-19 testing

According to the DHD #4 release, drive-through COVID-19 testing is available on certain days through Alcona Health Center (989.356.4049, ext. 3832) and Thunder Bay Community Health Services (989.733.6827). A free, drive-through testing event is also being held Tuesday, September 22 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Alpena County Fairgrounds; no appointment or doctor’s orders needed.

As Fall Semester continues it is imperative that all ACC employees and students adhere to the above guidelines so that face-to-face instruction can continue. In the event that a widespread outbreak occurs on ACC campuses, the College may need to switch over to all remote/online course delivery.

ACC has taken the following steps to keep employees and students safe on campus:

Employees must complete a daily health screening.
Face coverings are required indoors, including classrooms, hallways, and all public gathering places.
Social distancing (at least six feet apart) is required in all indoor spaces.
Frequent hand washing is encouraged. The College has also placed a number of hand sanitizing stations around campuses.
Classrooms and other meeting spaces have been reconfigured to accommodate social distancing.
An enhanced classroom cleaning schedule is in place; disinfectant wipes are also available in classrooms.
COVID symptoms include: a temperature of 100.4 or higher, an uncontrolled cough, shortness of breath; loss of taste or smell, muscle aches, sore throat, severe headache, diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Anyone experiencing one or more of these symptoms should stay home, contact an ACC representative, and contact a healthcare provider.

July 23, 2020

Selected Campus Buildings Open; Face Coverings Required

Alpena Community College will allow students and the public into select campus buildings beginning Monday, July 27, 2020.

Initially only three buildings — Van Lare Hall, Besser Technical Center, and the Newport Center — will be open. One entryway in each building will be unlocked.

• Van Lare Hall: use the main (north) entry.

• Besser Technical Center: use the west entry adjacent to Parking Lot B (near the Facilities Office).

• Newport Center: use the north entry adjacent to Parking Lot C (near the Library).

Doors to each building will be unlocked between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on weekdays.

Also beginning Monday, July 27, ACC will require all students, staff, faculty, and visitors to wear a face covering that covers the mouth and nose in any ACC building. This policy aligns with Executive Order 2020-147, signed by Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, which mandates the wearing of protective face coverings in indoor places of public accommodation.

Students with a documented medical condition will be granted a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA); for information on requesting such accommodations, please contact Nancy Seguin, Dean of Student Services, at 989.358.7212.

ACC continues to take proactive steps to protect everyone’s health including promoting social distancing and other physical measures. Students can take classes at ACC and work toward their academic goals in a safe, supportive atmosphere.

ACC’s Fall Semester begins August 31, 2020. Current students can register for Fall classes online through WebAdvisor. More Fall Semester information can be found on the ACC website.

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May 20, 2020, 11:00 a.m.

ACC Announces Phased Re-Opening of Campus to All Employees

As of Tuesday, May 26, all ACC employees will return to their normal work schedules on campus. If alternate arrangements need to be made, please consult with your supervisor.

For more information on returning to campus, please read the ACC COVID-19 Preparedness and Response Plan.

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March 31, 2020, 3:00 p.m.

ACC Announces Open Registration for Summer and Fall Semester Courses

Registration for returning ACC students will open on Monday, April 6, 2020, for Summer 2020 and Fall 2020 courses. Students are encouraged to contact their advisors for more information on degree requirements and course selection.

For Summer Semester 2020, six-week traditional online courses will start May 18 and June 29. Most Summer 2020 courses will be offered remotely and will start June 15. Please carefully check the start and end dates of each course.

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March 26, 2020, 10:30 a.m.

ACC Postpones 2020 Commencement and End-of-the-Year Activities

With the health and safety of students, employees, and the public as its top priority, Alpena Community College has decided to postpone its 2020 Commencement ceremony and related end-of-the-year activities until further notice. Originally scheduled for May 7, 2020, Commencement will be rescheduled later in the year.

Even though ACC has postponed the Commencement ceremony, eligible students who have submitted a graduation application will still graduate. ACC Registrar Sheila Rupp will complete graduation audits after Spring 2020 Semester grades are posted to verify completion of requirements and degrees/certificates will be awarded to all eligible graduates. Questions regarding graduation status may be directed to the Registrar’s Office (rupps@alpenacc.edu, 989-358-7353).

Alpena Community College continues to monitor local, regional, and state sources related to the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic and act accordingly. ACC is committed to the safety and health of students, employees, and the community.

Please refer to this web page for continuing updates on changes/cancellations and student resources. Students should check BlackBoard and ACC email daily to make sure they are completing all assignments and necessary course work.

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March 23, 2020, 10:30 a.m.

All ACC Courses Offered Via Blackboard or Video Conferencing

As of today, Monday, March 23, all Alpena Community College buildings are closed but the College continues to deliver all course work online and remotely using Blackboard and video conferencing.

Following is new information related to current ACC operations:

Students should contact their instructors daily to make sure they are completing all assignments and necessary course work.

All students should log into their ACC student email accounts and Blackboard and check their messages. For help, contact the ACC Help Desk at helpdesk@alpenacc.edu or 989-358-7374.

For students who need internet access, ACC has provided new outdoor wifi hotspots in four parking lots around the Alpena Campus.

Students in need of a computer can contact the Help Desk at helpdesk@alpenacc.edu or 989-358-7374.

ACC has added a student resources web page which includes tips on communicating with instructors, finding internet options, arranging for ACC student services, and mental health resources.

Many ACC activities have either been changed or cancelled. Please refer to the ACC cancellations and closures web page for the latest information.

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March 19, 2020, 10:00 a.m.

ACC COVID-19 Update: ACC Campus Buildings Close

During this week of uncertainty and anxiety, I have proudly watched as the employees and students of Alpena Community College have come together and accomplished many great things. The safety of students, staff, and the community is paramount to me.

As of 4:30 p.m. today, Thursday, March 19, ACC will close the Alpena and Oscoda campuses to the public and students until further notice. This includes the Testing Center and the Library. Courses will continue to be offered remotely. Students should continue to regularly communicate with their instructors about course work, etc. Buildings will be locked and only designated essential personnel will be allowed. Access is being limited and monitored.

Essential personnel allowed/required to be on campus will be determined by supervisors. Departments which will be staffed include:

Faculty
Information Technology
Learning Technology
Accounting/Payroll
Human Resources
Admissions
Financial Aid
Facilities
Student Services/Accommodations
Emergency Management Team
Office of Public Information

Employees will continue to be paid based on their regular hours.

Thanks for your consideration and persistence during this unprecedented time.

Dr. Don MacMaster, President

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March 18, 2020, 2:00 p.m.
ACC COVID-19 Update:

Alpena Community College continues to monitor local, regional, and state sources related to the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic and react accordingly. We are committed to the safety and health of our students, employees, and the community. Following is the latest information available from ACC.

As of today, Wednesday, March 18, ACC is postponing the start of registration for Summer Semester 2020 and Fall Semester 2020.

The Fall Semester class schedule is now available for viewing on WebAdvisor. Students are encouraged to talk with faculty advisors and begin building their schedules.
Fall Semester registration will be open to students on April 6.
The Summer Semester 2020 class schedule is still being adjusted and is not currently available. It will be released to WebAdvisor when it is ready.
ACC’s March 25 early registration day will be restructured; those changes will be communicated when they are available.

ACC will continue to update this web page each day (usually by 5:00 p.m.) to provide the latest information to students, employees, and the public.

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March 16, 2020, 5:00 p.m.

ACC COVID-19 Update:

Alpena Community College continues to monitor local, regional, and state sources related to the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic and react accordingly. We are committed to the safety and health of our students, employees, and the community. Following is the latest information available from ACC, broken up by audience.

For Everyone:

If you are exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 (a fever of 100.4 or higher, respiratory issues like cough or shortness of breath) or you have been in direct contact with an individual diagnosed with COVID-19, please do not come to either ACC campus. Instead, call your healthcare provider and follow the CDC guidelines for self-quarantining.
Effective social distancing helps reduce the transmission of the COVOD-19 virus. ACC has taken action to limit close contact between people.
While ACC’s Alpena and Oscoda campuses remain open at this time, the College asks that the public not visit our campuses. If you are experiencing any other cold or flu-like symptoms, please do not come to campus.
If you have general questions about ACC operations, please call the College’s main phone number (989-356-9021) and continue to visit the ACC COVID-19 webpage.

For All Students:

All courses will resume in a remote format on Wednesday, March 18. Students will receive information from their instructors via ACC email and Blackboard.
ACC students should complete their remote course offerings at their homes or other locations.
All online classes will continue as scheduled.

For Faculty

Any faculty member exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 (a fever of 100.4 or higher, respiratory issues like cough or shortness of breath) or who has been in direct contact with an individual diagnosed with COVID-19, please do not come to either ACC campus. Instead, call your healthcare provider and follow the CDC guidelines for self-quarantining. Please contact the Vice President of Instruction and the Office of Human Resources.
For technical help with online/remote courses, please contact the Office of Information Technology at helpdesk@alpenacc.edu.

For Administrators and Staff

Any administrator or staff member exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 (a fever of 100.4 or higher, respiratory issues like cough or shortness of breath) or who has been in direct contact with an individual diagnosed with COVID-19, please do not come to either ACC campus. Instead, call your healthcare provider and follow the CDC guidelines for self-quarantining. Please contact the Office of Human Resources.

Athletics:

ACC Spring Semester athletics (Softball) are cancelled.

List of Changes/Cancellations

The March 17, 2020, ACC Board of Trustees meeting is cancelled.
The Wellness Center and Park Arena are closed until April 6.
The ACC Library is closed to the public until April 6; hours of operation: 7:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday through Wednesday and 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thursdays; and 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Fridays. Weekend hours are: 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays.
Library testing services are available by appointment.
The ACC Bookstore is closed until further notice.
The Student Success Center has expanded hours.
The Testing Center hours will be 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Wednesday each week, and 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursdays, and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Fridays.
All courses will resume in a remote format on Wednesday, March 18. Students will receive information from their instructors via ACC email and Blackboard.
Community Education courses are cancelled until April 6.
Financial aid refund checks will be mailed to students; no in-person pickup.
The Oscoda Campus Just Jobs Outlet event on March 18 is cancelled.
The March 20 Utility Technology Orientation is to be rescheduled for a later date to be announced.
The March 25 New Student Orientation is rescheduled for April 14.
The Lumberjack Shack (on-campus food service) is closed until at least April 5.

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March 13, 2020, 5:00 p.m.

An Update from the President:

Yesterday (March 12), Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed Executive Order 2020-5 which, among other things, closes all K-12 school buildings to students from Monday, March 16, until Sunday, April 5. ACC is working with partner high schools to determine the best course of action on current courses.

ACC has made the following decisions:

All ACC courses offered in high school buildings are suspended for the duration of the K-12 school closure period (Sunday, April 5) unless students are otherwise notified by their instructor of other content delivery options.
ACC will strive to deliver course content via remote learning when/where possible. Some courses may not be able to be delivered via remote learning, including some occupational and lab classes (e.g. Concrete Tech, Utility Tech, Nursing, etc.). Detailed information and instructions pertaining to each individual course will be communicated to students directly from the instructor via ACC email or Blackboard. Students should regularly monitor their student email, Blackboard, SchoolMessenger, and the ACC COVID-19 web page for updates.
All current Online courses will continue as scheduled.
All ACC courses are cancelled for Monday and Tuesday, March 16-17. This suspension will allow faculty time to transition to remote instruction so our students may successfully complete the semester.
Park Arena and the Wellness Center on the Alpena Campus will be closed until further notice.
ACC employees are expected to report to work unless they are ill.
All non-ACC events held on the Alpena Campus have been cancelled through April 5.

ACC will continue to update this webpage each day (usually by 2:00 p.m.) to provide the latest information to students, employees, and the public.

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March 12, 2020, 3:00 p.m.

An Update from the President:

As part of Alpena Community College's efforts to prevent and contain the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19), ACC has made the following decisions:

All ACC classes are cancelled for Monday and Tuesday, March 16-17.
All faculty shall report to their offices on Monday, March 16, at 9 a.m.
A Department Chair meeting will be held on Monday, March 16, at 9 a.m. at the Alpena Campus, BTC 126.
Administrators and staff shall report on Monday, March 16, at their normally scheduled times.
Students, faculty, administrators, and staff should regularly monitor their ACC email accounts, this website, and SchoolMessenger for more information on the resumption of courses.

ACC will continue to update this webpage each day by 2:00 p.m. to provide the latest information to students, employees, and the public.

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March 11, 2020, 5:00 p.m.

A Message from the President:

Dear Students and Colleagues,

As COVID-19 has now been found in Michigan, colleges and universities are responding with a range of proactive measures designed to mitigate the spread of the virus and protect their communities. Below are seven recommendations for colleges issued by Governor Whitmer during a conference call with college presidents this afternoon (March 11, 2020).

Educate students on COVID-19 and proper hygiene practices for preventing its spread.
Encourage students, faculty, and staff to stay home when sick.
Consider cancelling large gatherings or events of over 100 people or more
Implement tele-learning practices where practical
Encourage proper and safe hand washing
Consider implementing distance (online) learning options especially for the most vulnerable populations
Encourage students, faculty, and staff to eat alone rather than in groups in close proximity.

At this time, the College is working to implement each of these seven mitigation strategies. Our sole intent in this effort is to protect students, staff, and the community.

Because this situation is fluid with events changing rapidly, please refer to this ACC webpage for the most recent updates.

Thanks,

Dr. Don MacMaster
President
Alpena Community College

ACC Response to COVID-19

ACC Announces Phased Re-Opening of Campus to All Employees

ACC Announces Open Registration for Summer and Fall Semester Courses

ACC Postpones 2020 Commencement and End-of-the-Year Activities

All ACC Courses Offered Via Blackboard or Video Conferencing

ACC COVID-19 Update: ACC Campus Buildings Close

An Update from the President:

An Update from the President:

A Message from the President:

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