In response to the questions regarding COVID-19, we wanted to share responses to some of the most frequently asked questions. We will share additional answers via email as common themes emerge. These answers will also be included on our website http://www.noc.edu/emergency/.
Does anyone at NOC have the coronavirus?
NOC officials have not been notified of any person in the NOC community currently being tested for the virus, which is the typical protocol for the State Department of Health.
Is the College closing?
The college remains open. Faculty and staff will still be working at their campus locations. A move to online classes does not mean the college is closed. Most campus services will operate as usual after spring break.
Will I need to move out of my residence hall? (Tonkawa/Enid)
Residence halls are open even though we are transitioning to online classes from March 23 through April 3. Campus dining will also remain available. NOC’s libraries in Tonkawa and Enid will be open for those who need internet access. Those students who are able to study online during this time from an off-campus location are encouraged to do so. NOC computer and tutor labs will remain open. For specific questions regarding housing, contact the Office of Student Affairs at 580.628.6240 or 580.548.2386.
How do students do online classes?
Please check your NOC email and refer to http://www.noc.edu/blackboard for more instructions.
Will the NOC Tonkawa Wellness Center remain open?
The Wellness Center will be closed for spring break, March 13 – 23. We will evaluate hours of operation for March 24 and beyond.
What about my job as a student worker?
Any student or temporary worker (including work study) who wishes to work their normally scheduled hours may do so during the online learning period. Check with your supervisor for further information and precautions.
What is the impact on labs?
During the period from Monday, March 23 through Friday, April 3, faculty will work with instructional design tools in Blackboard, NOC’s learning management system, to accommodate laboratory experiences/assignments and individual instruction in music and other fields using the videoconferencing system, email and discussion boards. We understand that not all laboratory experiences and individual instruction can be accommodated in this way. Instructors will be developing alternative experiences for students, and, if possible, labs and individual instruction will continue after Friday, April 3. We will also continue to explore alternatives to ensure that students learn what they need to know to continue their progress toward their degrees. During this time of transition, it is important for all of us to remember to remain flexible as the campus adapts to more non-traditional instructional formats for some disciplines.
Will tutoring and testing be available for students?
- Tutoring labs will remain open for one-on-one tutoring. Online tutoring service is also available through www.tutor.com (available through each course’s Blackboard page)
- For more information on tutoring services – http://www.noc.edu/tutoringservices
- Testing and assessment services will remain open.
- For more information on testing services – http://www.noc.edu/noctesting
Will athletic events go on as scheduled?
After reviewing and evaluating all of the feedback and information from our membership and regional leadership, the NJCAA is suspending all competition beginning Saturday, March 14 through Friday, April 3. The NJCAA Board of Regents will meet on April 3 and an update from the National Office will be provided with a full assessment of the national landscape. The NJCAA men’s basketball national championship tournament is still scheduled for April 20.
- For NOC Mavericks updates – www.nocmavs.com
- For NOC Jets updates – www.nocjets.com
Will college-related events go on as scheduled?
All College-related events scheduled to occur between March 14 – April 3 are suspended. This includes, but is not limited to: large recruitment events and tours, student programs, reunions, performances, conferences, and social events. We will continue to evaluate event hosting and will issue an announcement regarding events slated for April 4 and beyond.
- For more information, monitor the website at www.noc.edu.
Will study abroad continue?
Effective March 13, all college-sponsored international travel is prohibited through the end of the spring semester. NOC is currently monitoring the summer trips abroad and will make adjustments as they become necessary.
Can I work from home?
Unless you are sick or quarantined, we are currently asking all employees to report to their campus jobs per usual until further notice.
If you think you have been exposed to COVID-19 and/or are exhibiting symptoms:
- First, call your primary physician.
- Then contact the following help lines – NOC Stillwater Campus – Oklahoma State University Health Services 405.744.7665 NOC Enid and NOC Tonkawa Campuses – OK Dept of Health, Community Help Line 877.215.8336
In accordance with CDC guidance, the College is reviewing options to ensure social distancing occurs. Social distancing is a term applied to certain actions taken by Public Health officials to stop or slow down the spread of disease. Examples including limiting gatherings of large groups of people, changing business processes to allow for less face-to-face interaction and measures that minimize physical contact such as refraining from shaking hands. The College asks that you reconsider upcoming events that would require group meetings and utilize ZOOM or other communication options. Also, please consider further leveraging of technology to handle team meetings and other business transactions that would normally be completed through face-to-face interaction. Please encourage No-Contact Greetings. Simply announce you are not shaking hands at this time. Anyone watching the current news cycle will likely understand and be appreciative of your approach. In the same vein, please ensure that work space cleanings take place more frequently.