East Arizona News

Due to social limitations that have been imposed due to COVID-19, Eastern Arizona College has made their own resolution.

According to the EA Courier, via an emergency video conference on Zoom, Eastern Arizona College made a resolution regarding their measures moving forward due to COVID-19. The resolution was approved by unanimous vote and gave the president of the college the authority to make a number of temporary police decisions as needed because of the virus. 

Todd Haynie, president of Eastern Arizona College, said that there will need to be changes enacted as the disease is fast-spreading. 

“The pandemic is such a fast-moving crisis that's required some quick decisions on our part to address the issues going forward, to be able to complete the rest of the semester,” Haynie said.

Haynie’s new level of authority will continue until June 11 or beyond, depending on the board’s decision at that time. 

As of March 27, the college decided to hold certain classes online, but continue holding hands-on courses such as welding in person. The group size of the classes will be required to be under 10 people in order to comply with federal recommendations.

Additionally, the graduation and other major events that the school normally holds have been cancelled. 

Board member Lois Ann Moody said that these measures are being put into place with the goal of protecting those who interact with the institution on a regular basis. 

“The whole thing is definitely a new and different experience, but at least it’s keeping the students, faculty and staff safe. I think these are all good decisions,” Moody said.

Students are being advised to go home if they are able to and those who are not able to live elsewhere may continue to live in the residence halls. Food service is being limited to takeout and the alumni library is closed to the public and only accessible via appointment for students. 

Instructors are being forced to find new ways to teach their students, such as drive-up testing that students complete alone in their cars for the Nursing Department.