State of Emergency Declared

During a special meeting of the Desert Community College District Board, trustees unanimously adopted a state of emergency proclamation, which provides authority to Superintendent/President Kinnamon, or his designee, to take any and all actions necessary to ensure the continuation of education while protecting the health and safety of the students and staff at College of the Desert.

“The action taken today is simply precautionary at this time,” said Dr. Kinnamon. “This is a dynamic situation and we are preparing for any change in direction from public health experts, including making preparations to move some of our classroom courses to online effective March 16th.”

Riverside County Health officials have confirmed two or more community transmission cases of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) in the Coachella Valley. No students or employees at the College have tested positive for COVID-19.

“We know that testing is increasing throughout our valley, which could lead to rapid changes to the situation. The Board of Trustees’ primary goal is to keep our community safe while maintaining as much normal class instruction and college operations as possible,” said Dr. Kinnamon.