Friday, Mar 13, 2020
Message was sent to Westminster College of the Arts students
Dear Students,
I wish to thank you for your patience and flexibility in the rapidly evolving situation surrounding the coronavirus. Earlier today, you received the University message, some of which I will repeat for reinforcement and/or clarification. Please read this message in its entirety, as some of the information will be new or specific to your student situation.
Please be assured that the WCA administrative team is aware of the tremendous range of emotional responses and challenges resulting from this situation. Personally, I thank you for trying to negotiate all of these changes, and for what you are about to do when we begin delivering our curricula remotely. The intention of remote delivery is to recognize the importance of the health and well-being of the entire community. To reinforce earlier messages, all courses will be suspended for the entire two-week Spring Break.
As you read this, do not hesitate to let my office know if you have questions, suggestions, etc. Some of the decisions announced here were difficult to make, but they are appropriate and important, given the spread of the virus. I/we recognize the importance of events such as student recitals, which have a professional and emotional component. In many cases, a recital is one of the most important memories from school. Do not hesitate to speak with someone if you are experiencing concerns about this. Be assured that what we must do this semester will not impede your progress to graduation.
Please continue to practice best practices for hygiene, and please consider the health of your family members and friends. If you must self-quarantine, please notify my office. Please feel free to share this email with your family.
I know many unanswered questions remain, and I will continue to update you as planning unfolds. Again, my thanks for all your efforts.
Sincerely,
Dr. Onofrio
Timetable
I. Spring Break begins on March 14 and concludes on March 29, 2020. As previously announced, the University is encouraging
II. During that period, no lessons, rehearsals or other instructional activities are permitted.
III. All instructional activities will resume on Monday, March 30, 2020.
From March 30 through Friday, April 10, all instruction will be delivered remotely.
Students will not be returning to campus during that period, although some will be in the residence halls.
IV. On or before Friday, April 3, the University will inform the community what will happen after April 10 regarding instruction and events.
Performance Calendar
I. All non-Conservatory events on our Performance Calendar between March 14 and April 10 are canceled.
II. Between March 14 and April 10, per agreement of the student, applied teacher, and accompanist, student recitals may occur at an off-campus venue. Performance Management will assist students if they wish to reschedule an on-campus recital or to obtain a list of possible off-campus venues.
III. Department chairs, associate deans, and I will be working to determine options for events scheduled between March 23 and April 10.
Music Education
I. This is quite fluid, and we continue to work with the State Department of Education regarding general policies.
II. Student teachers are to continue their placement as long as their placement site remains open.
III. If the placement site closes, they should determine and report to their University supervisor whether the school is moving to remote instruction. If so, they also should determine if they will be permitted to continue assisting in instruction.
IV. Students in practicum assignments are not to visit their placement site until further notice.
Student Housing
From the University message of earlier today:
We strongly encourage all resident students who are able to return home to do so and stay home until further notice. This will help reduce the risk associated with living in close proximity to each other. We know that, for a variety of reasons, some students cannot return home. Rider is committed to supporting these students. Please know that those who cannot return home will be able to remain on campus in consultation with Residence Life and with food, maintenance, Public Safety and other services provided. For those students who cannot return home because of extenuating circumstances, we ask you to complete this form. Students will receive more information shortly from Residence Life concerning residence hall departures.
Course Selection for Fall 2020
Please see the Registrar’s website for an update schedule for registration. Please contact your advisor for questions related to academic progress and course selection. Remember that you may view your online transcript and DegreeWorks evaluation through MyRider.
Travel
We are asking all members of the community to reconsider all travel, including domestic. With that said, we recognize it is a personal choice for folks to travel, and if one travels domestically, we do not currently have a mandatory self-isolation protocol in place. However, that could change at a moment's notice, and anyone who comes into contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case, or who begins to display symptoms, will need to be prepared to self-isolate.
Applied Lessons
I. For health, safety, and Title IX reasons, faculty will not be permitted to teach University students in their private homes or off-campus studios.
II. We will be assisting faculty to consider remote delivery of applied lessons, and more information will be sent when ready.
III. All departments require a minimum number of lessons to be completed in order for a semester to count. Please consult with your applied teacher or department chair to confirm the minimum number required in your major.
Additional Items
I. Student workers and graduate assistants are permitted to work remotely during the two-week Spring Break. Please inform your supervisor if you are interested in working remotely.
II. Associate deans or department chairs will work with students enrolled in internships on an individual basis.