This page is dedicated to archive important information previously communicated to faculty and staff during the COVID-19 change in College operations period beginning in March 2020.

Communication Archives

College Operations - COVID-19 Update

Letter to Students Dated January 6, 2022

January 6, 2022

Dear Student,

Pasco-Hernando State College has been closely monitoring COVID cases of the Omicron variant in the local area. Since the beginning of the pandemic, PHSC has adhered to and implemented guidelines and recommendations set for by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The College’s adherence to the recommended practices has minimized the spread of the virus on our campuses. PHSC continues to plan for a safe return in the Spring semester and for classes to occur with proper measures to ensure the health and safety of all students, faculty, staff, and visitors.

To maximize flexibility for students and faculty, PHSC continues to offer a variety of instructional options. In-person instruction continues to be reconfigured to include social distancing provisions. These changes mean that classes may be smaller and may meet in larger spaces. Large classes or programs may be split into smaller sections, receive instruction via hybrid/on-campus, remote (synchronous), hybrid remote (synchronous), online, or consist of a combination of both. PHSC aims to offer flexibility for students and faculty while maintaining a safe learning environment.

Spring courses scheduled as On-Campus or Hybrid/On-Campus may have a change in meeting format. Online, Remote and Hybrid/Remote courses remain in place and unaffected. Please know that a PHSC staff member will contact you to determine any course modality changes for converting the face-to-face classes to Hybrid/Remote sections for courses that are amenable to this modality.

Please communicate with your instructors with any questions you may have.

Course Modality Options

1. On-Campus—the course meets face-to-face on campus on the days and times listed in the schedule.

2. Hybrid/On-Campus—the course meets on campus on the day and time listed in the schedule. The remainder of the course is delivered with online assignments and activities. Students may need a webcam and microphone for this class.

3. Remote—the course meets remotely on the days and times listed in the schedule providing the benefits of face-to-face classes in a live, remote environment by utilizing technology (Zoom) through Canvas. Students need a webcam and microphone for this class.

4. Hybrid/Remote—the course meets remotely on the day and time listed in the schedule by utilizing technology (Zoom) through Canvas. The remainder of the course is delivered with online assignments and activities. Students need a webcam and microphone for this class.

5. Online—the course is available through Canvas any time throughout the semester offering a high level of flexibility; no set meeting schedule. Students may need a webcam and microphone for this class.

As course modality adjustments may impact student class schedules, PHSC has reinstated the add/drop period through January 14. Students will be able to add or drop a class through January 14.

The safety, health, and well-being of our campus community will always be our highest priority. PHSC will continue to provide communications on a regular basis as the College continues to monitor the progression of COVID-19. For current PHSC safety protocols, visit: safety.phsc.edu/procedures/coronavirus.

PHSC wishes you a successful Spring semester.

Emergency Relief Funding for Students

Emergency relief funding may be available to students through the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund.  

August 13, 2021 Updated Protocols

General Health and Safety

PHSC Expects Face Masks / Face Coverings to be worn indoors by faculty, staff, students, and campus visitors at all PHSC locations. Face coverings should also be worn by all participants at all indoor College hosted off-campus events, meetings and activities. When working alone in offices, classrooms, or other rooms on campus, it is not necessary to wear masks. However, masks should be readily available and worn as soon as anyone enters the room or workspace. 

  • Vaccinated individuals – Optional while outdoors.
  • Unvaccinated individuals – Encouraged while outdoors.

Social Distancing Practices will be implemented at all PHSC locations whenever possible, indoors and outdoors and at any College-hosted off-campus events and activities.   

Practice good personal hygiene. Wash hands frequently for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, use hand sanitizer. 

Self-Screening is essential. Faculty, staff and students should not report to work, attend classes, or visit any PHSC location if experiencing fever, a cough or difficulty breathing. (see list of symptoms.*) Communicate with instructors or supervisor immediately to report absences. 

Remote/virtual access to meetings, events, and activities should be provided, when possible, to support de-densifying strategies and social distancing.

Following Positive Test:

  • Complete the 10-calendar day quarantine period 
  • Be asymptomatic with no fever (or use of medications to suppress fever) for at least 24 hours prior to return to campus.
  • In accordance with IMM 1-45, medical clearance should be submitted to the appropriate office.
  • Sick leave must be used if symptomatic during quarantine. If asymptomatic, working remotely is an acceptable alternative.

Following Significant Exposure:

  • Fully vaccinated individuals who have had close contact with someone with COVID-19 should:
    • Test 3-5 days following the date of exposure.
    • Self-assess for COVID-19 symptoms for 14 days following exposure.
    • Wear a mask in public indoor settings for 14 days or until a negative test result is received
    • Isolate upon positive COVID-19 test results.  
    • Consider masking at home for 14 days following a known exposure to COVID-19 or if residing with an individual who is immunosuppressed, at increased risk of severe disease, or unvaccinated (including children 12 years of age or younger)
    • Most fully vaccinated people without COVID-like symptoms do not need to quarantine or be restricted from work following an exposure to someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 if they follow the testing and masking recommendations above.
  • Non-vaccinated individuals who have had close contact with someone with COVID-19 should:
    • Quarantine for 10 days.
    • Remain asymptomatic through quarantine.
    • Follow the same protocol as those who test COVID-19 positive, restarting quarantine at the onset of symptoms.
    • Request permission to consider working remotely.
    • Remote work must be recommended by supervisors and reviewed and approved by an executive administrator and the President.

Events

Events and activities held at any PHSC location or hosted by PHSC at offsite be assessed on a case-by-case basis. If the event is approved, attendees -- whether employees, students, or community members -- are expected to follow PHSC protocols.

Facilities Cleaning/Scope of Work/Sanitization Details

  • The original Scope of Work will continue daily with the supplement of the additional cleaning/disinfecting due to the COVID -19 pandemic.
  • Cleaning of high touch points within buildings during scheduled times, i.e. door handles, desks, tables, chair arms, handicap access bottoms, restroom fixtures.
  • Disinfection of horizontal surfaces and touch points within used classrooms between or after classes.
  • Disinfection of common areas such as lobbies, intake desks, plexiglass dividers.
  • Disinfection of restrooms during scheduled cleaning times scheduled for buildings.
  • Other Cleaning/Disinfecting as requested within the conditions of the Agreement.
  • Addition of Disinfection Custodians to continuously disinfect high touch points around the campuses.
  • In the event of a Positive COVID -19 by individuals on campus – any affected areas (office, classroom, etc.) will be secured and entry denied for 24 to 48 hours. The area will be cleaned and disinfected, before reentry.
  • Disinfecting solutions – better suited for COVID use (in use since April 2020).
  • Additional Daily Disinfection Custodians- The sole function of the additional custodians will be to disinfect touch points within buildings at times specified in the schedule. These additional Team Members will disinfect high touch points in classrooms, remove trash, straighten and disinfect chairs and make the room ready for the next class to safely enter. The disinfection specialist will wear a distinguishable uniform shirt in a different color from the other ABM staff.

Hand sanitizer stations/Quantity by Locations

West Campus: 109

East Campus:  58

North Campus: 53

Spring Hill Campus: 64

Porter Campus: 71

Instructional Performing Arts Center: 15

Total: 370

*Symptoms of COVID-19 may include:

  • Fever or chills
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle or body aches
  • Headache
  • New loss of taste or smell
  • Sore throat
  • Congestion or runny nose
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Diarrhea

COVID-19 Resources

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/faq.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/fully-vaccinated-guidance.html

https://floridahealthcovid19.gov/testing-sites/

The information is current as of August 13, 2021. Circumstances regarding COVID-19 and variants of the virus are continuously changing. PHSC protocols and guidance may be adapted as conditions change and some administrative actions and decisions will be made on a case-by-case basis.  Updates will be announced and posted on the COVID-19 page of the College website www.phsc.edu.

August 12, 2021 - North Campus Closed 8/12-22

Due to COVID exposure on the North Campus in Brooksville, all North Campus operations will be remote through August 22, 2021; reopening on August 23, 2021. This includes the student registration extended deadline which will be available remotely through August 20, 2021. All North Campus face-to-face classes will be taught remotely during this time with the exception of select Nursing and Health Program courses. Please reach out to your instructor if you have questions. Pasco-Hernando State College remains committed to the health and safety of our students and staff. Stay safe and continue to monitor your PHSC email and the College website for updates.

August 2, 2021 - PHSC Students, Faculty and Staff

Florida is experiencing a dramatic spike in COVID-19 cases linked to the Delta variant of the virus. New evidence indicates that both vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals can spread the virus. Reportedly, while vaccinated individuals can acquire COVID-19, symptoms are mild and rarely lead to severe illness, hospitalization or death.

"In compliance with CDC recommendation, all PHSC employees, students and visitors must wear masks indoors at all PHSC facilities beginning ASAP or no later than start of day tomorrow morning, Tuesday, August 3," said Dr. Beard. The mask mandate applies in classrooms and during all indoor College-hosted activities, whether held on or off PHSC campuses and facilities. At this time, masks are not required outdoors. However, social distancing rules according to CDC guidelines will remain in effect inside and outdoors at all PHSC locations.

"While proof of vaccination will not be required, I urge all employees and students to receive vaccinations as soon as possible to help curb the alarming rate of COVID-19 cases within our district. Vaccinations are free, readily available and can protect our colleagues, neighbors and family from this devastating disease. An updated, more detailed College COVID-19 plan will be circulated and posted on PHSC’s website and intranet later this week. Please take every precaution, including washing your hands frequently and thoroughly, to protect the health of our college community," said Dr. Beard.

As a reminder, the College Store at all campuses offers a selection of discounted masks for your convenience.

June 9, 2021 - PHSC Students, Faculty and Staff

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, PHSC has adhered to and implemented guidelines and recommendations set for by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The College’s adherence to the recommended practices has minimized the spread of the virus on our campuses. During the past few weeks, according to the CDC, the number of vaccinated citizens has increased in communities throughout the nation, and they have indicated a decrease in the positivity rates (3% or less) of individuals tested. Consequently, the CDC has recommended the wearing of face coverings to be optional (indoors or outdoors) for individuals who have been fully vaccinated.

Effective immediately, PHSC will follow the CDC recommendation of optional face mask wearing (inside or outside) for fully vaccinated employees, students, or individuals who visit our campuses. Relative protocols (social distancing, especially for non-vaccinated individuals) and the continuous practices that will help ensure the safety of students and employees on all of our campuses are encouraged. PHSC will continue to monitor and review guidelines presented by the CDC, our local health agencies, and the Florida Department of Education.

July 3, 2020 - PHSC President Letter to Students on College Re-Entry

Dear PHSC Students: In light of the surge in Coronavirus cases throughout Florida and our district, Pasco-Hernando State College is delaying the College’s return to campus-based operations until further notice. The health and safety of our students is our most important priority and we look forward to welcoming you back on campus when it is safe to do so.

Though most administrators, faculty and staff are working remotely, we are reachable via email and phone. Students will continue to have access to a full range of online services. PHSC’s Information Center staff are available to assist or can direct you to the appropriate person to address your questions or concerns. Our Information Center is available at 1-855-669-7472 from Monday–Thursday from 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. The Information Center can also be reached via email at information@phsc.edu. The College remains closed on Fridays through August 7.

Please be assured that we are preparing for your safe return to our campuses. Plexiglass barriers have been installed in areas where students are served, new signage will help enforce social distancing, and all facilities and classrooms are being deep cleaned and sanitized.

Please view my latest COVID-19 video update and review PHSC’s Reentry Plan and other important information related to the pandemic.

Despite the challenges we face in these uncertain times, completing the courses needed to attain your college degree or certificate is your best strategy for success. We encourage you to register for fall classes and reach out if you need assistance or information.

Stay well,

Timothy L. Beard, Ph.D., President

June 2, 2020 - Update on Health and Nursing Program for Fall 2020

Pasco-Hernando State College’s Nursing and Health Programs are continuing to evaluate the capacity and ability to admit students in the Fall 2020. We are monitoring the current recommendations of the Florida Department of Education, the Governor’s office, the CDC, the Board of Nursing, and our accrediting bodies for each program, as well as directives from our clinical partners.

The following programs will not admit in the Summer Term:

  • Dental Assistant (resume May 2021)
  • Surgical Tech Program (move to Spring 2021)
  • EMT - North Campus
  • EMT - East Campus
  • EMT- West Campus

The following programs will not admit in the Fall 2020 Term:

  • West Campus Paramedic Program (move to Spring 2021)
  • Generic RN Program East Campus (move to Spring 2021)
  • Generic RN Program West Campus (resume Spring 2021)
  • Generic RN Program Porter Campus (resume Fall 2021)
  • PN Program - West Campus (move to Spring 2021)
  • PN Program - North Campus (move to Spring 2021)

The following programs are currently considered for contingent admits in the Fall 2020 term:

  • LPN-Transition RN Program - North Campus (reduce number to 20)
  • LPN-Transition RN Program - West Campus (reduce number to 20)
  • Para-Transition RN Program - Porter Campus
  • EMT Program - East Campus
  • EMT Program - West Campus
  • Medical Assisting (open access currently)
  • Dental Hygiene (reduce number to 8)

If the student has already applied to a selective admission program, the application will remain active until the next application cycle unless the student opts to withdraw the application.

June 24, 2020 - PHSC President Letter to Students on College Operations

Dear Students: The Pasco-Hernando State College 2020 fall semester may look and feel somewhat different for students with additional steps being taken to ensure a safe and productive academic environment during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

The College will continue to deliver exceptional instructional offerings on campus (for certain programs and courses) and virtually (through online/hybrid/remote learning) while maintaining safety procedures recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Florida Department of Health (FLDOH).

To maximize flexibility, different instructional delivery options will be available for all students. Face-to-face instruction is being reconfigured to include social distancing provisions. These changes mean that classes may be smaller and may meet in larger spaces. Large classes or programs may be split into smaller sections, receive instruction via face-to-face/hybrid, online or consist of a combination of both. This flexibility will be crucial for students who may not otherwise be able to enroll and/or make timely progress towards their degree completion. However, should students need to conduct business in person, we would like to ask that they have an appointment. This will mediate the staff with potential exposure to COVID-19 and allow us to track who comes into our office should we need to contact them in the future should someone test positive for Covid-19.  

The goal is to offer as much flexibility for students as possible. The expectation is that face masks must be worn for face-to-face classes and that social distancing protocols will be followed across all PHSC campuses. Please visit the main Coronavirus web page to view the College Reentry Plan that outlines the three instructional modalities and programs/courses offered. If you have any questions regarding your course or program, please contact your program director, department chair, campus associate dean or respective academic dean. You can find out how to contact these members of faculty and staff on our website phsc.edu. PHSC Student Services will continue to be offered virtually and in July, some services can be scheduled by appointment.

 The safety, health and well-being of the campus community will always be PHSC’s highest priority. Strategies are in place to continuously monitor changing health issues and related campus operations. As the pandemic continues to evolve, college administration will determine if or when operational changes may be required.

This unprecedented situation for our college has created extraordinary challenges that our students, faculty, and staff have experienced over the past several months together and I have been inspired by the cooperation and collaboration of you all. I am confident that we can overcome these challenges as we face them going into the fall semester.

Be well and stay safe,

Timothy L. Beard, Ph.D., PHSC President

June 21, 2020 - Precautions for In-person CPR Courses

PHSC has incorporated several precautions to promote health and safety in our CPR classroom.

CPR courses are conducted using the standards presented by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organization, the American Heart Association (AHA), and additional safeguards incorporated by the College.

Students attending an in-person CPR course will have their temperature taken upon entering the classroom. Any student presenting with cold symptoms, coughing, sneezing, or a temperature will not be allowed to attend the class.

Students may register for CPR courses online. Questions or concerns regarding CPR courses may be directed to Dallas Crick, PHSC's AHA Training Center Coordinator at 727-816-3119 or crickd@phsc.edu.

May 27 - Testing Update

In repsonse to COVID-19, PHSC has waived the HESI application requirement for the current Dental Hygiene program. HESI testing will resume for the following admissions period later this year. 

PHSC now offers TEAS remote testing using the Proctorio platform! Two testing sessions will are available each day (Monday through Thursday) until June 30. Additional test sessions and days may be added as needed. 

For general testing questions, contact Testing Services at testing@phsc.edu.

May 14 - Statement to Health Sciences Program Students

During COVID-19, PHSC is and has been committed to ensuring the safety and health of our nursing and health program students and faculty, first and foremost. The newness of a highly contagious virus impacted College and Universities across the country and the world. We diligently monitored recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), local, state, and federal guidelines, the Department of Education (DOE), and accrediting agencies, recommendations of our clinical partners, and our students that reached out with concerns regarding the return to the Campuses and clinical settings. These guidelines changed frequently, to which we adjusted as needed.

To ensure continuity of education for PHSC’s students, the move to the online environment for all courses was necessary; including nursing and health programs, which were not developed to be delivered online. Faculty rose to the challenge and moved the courses online to provide the opportunity to keep students moving forward with the theory courses; however, unique challenges were associated with labs and clinicals which requires a hands-on approach to ensure that effective learning outcomes and competencies are met. Plans were established with faculty input on how to proceed for the different levels of students and the use of simulation.

Each College has to make the determination of what is best for their students and organization. The academic rigor and sound educational practices of PHSC nursing programs supports student learning and is paramount to what we do to prepare our students to be highly skilled in their field; thus, the demand for a PHSC nurse in the workforce. Repeatedly, the emphasis of discussion points has been on virtual simulation. Simulation provides a great supplement to learning; however, it is not the solution for all learning needs. The most recent communication from the board of nursing indicates that virtual simulation is to end on May 31st, unless another extension is granted, potentially, leaving students in a situation where full completion could not be met. We are proud of our students and the reputation that the nursing programs have, based on the preparedness of graduates. We have the number one PN program in the state and our RN programs excel at surpassing both the state and National NCLEX rates.

The fall 2020 plan has been modified to assist each student to meet his or her educational goals of students graduating in December 2020. The details of that plan are still in production and will be communicated to students so that they may plan their schedule accordingly.

Decisions made were and are fluid as guidelines change, sometimes daily; however, the commitment to student safety and quality education have been the driving forces of decision making.

May 7 - President's Virtual Town Hall Meeting

The PHSC President and Leadership Team hosted a virtual town hall meeting for students on May 7.  

The Town Hall meeting has ended. The Zoom meeting was recorded, however due to a system glitch, only a portion of the meeting recorded. View Recording

Highlights from the chat portion of the meeting are below:

  • PHSC will offer the TEAS testing through remote testing via Proctorio.
  • Testing questions can be directed to testing@phsc.edu.
  • Nursing program questions can be directed to Dean Billie Gabbard at 727-816-3284.
  • Trying to reach a faculty or staff member? Complete directory located in the footer of the website.
  • Planning is in progress for Fall Term with in-person classes still in question.
  • CARES Act funds available for eligible students. See below.
April 28, 2020 - PHSC President Letter to Students

Dear Student:

Thank you for your efforts to adapt to a “new normal” as PHSC enters our fourth full week of online instruction and remote operations. We have faced institutional challenges never seen before in our history. Many of you, on short notice, quickly adjusted to a virtual classroom environment and we appreciate your commitment to work toward academic goals.

While we rely on the guidance and recommendations of health and education officials, it is important to remain proactive in making decisions that could impact the well-being of PHSC students. Maintaining a safe teaching, learning and workplace environment is our top priority; therefore, while PHSC continues remote operations, campuses will remain closed to students, the public and most employees at least through June 1, 2020.

To honor our spring 2020 graduates, the college will host a virtual commencement ceremony on May 26. Additional details will be announced soon.

Along with members of my leadership team, I will host a virtual town hall meeting to address student questions and concerns related to the Coronavirus and college operations on Thursday, May 7 at 2 p.m. More information about how to participate in the virtual town hall meeting will be circulated soon.

As the spring term concludes, I offer my appreciation and best wishes to graduates. To those of you continuing your studies at PHSC, we hope that you will consider enrolling in online summer courses. Our fall schedule of classes will be released as soon as possible. A revised academic schedule and additional updates are available at phsc.edu.

In the meantime, please ensure your success by communicating clearly with professors and administrators. Address any issues that you might face promptly and remain engaged and patient as we adapt to the extraordinary challenges presented by the ever-evolving COVID-19 landscape.

Again, thank you. Please be safe, stay positive, and stay well!

Timothy L. Beard, Ph.D., President

Virtual Textbook Buy Back event begins April 27. 

To keep in line with the CDC’s guidelines for social distancing, the college has replaced all on campus Buy Backs with an online or virtual Buy Back event. Learn more about the Virtual Textbook BuyBack event.

Summer Term 2020 Schedule

Summer Term III
Term III
Date Day  
May 14 Thur Purge for Unpaid Registrations
May 21 Thur Classes Begin; Drop/Add Begins
May 25 Mon Memorial Day Holiday
May 27 Wed Drop/Add Ends
July 13 Mon Last Day for Withdrawal/Audit
July 30 Thur Classes End
Aug 3 Mon Grades Due by 9 p.m.
Summer Term IIIA
Term IIIA
Date Day  
May 14 Thur Purge for Unpaid Registrations
May 21 Thur

Classes Begin; Drop/Add Begins
May 25 Mon Memorial Day Holiday
May 27 Wed Drop/Add Ends
June 18 Thur Last Day for Withdrawal/Audit
July 2 Thur Classes End
July 6 Mon Grades Due by 9 p.m.
Summer Term IIIB
Term IIIB
Date Day  
May 14 Thur Purge for Unpaid Registrations
July 6 Thur

Classes Begin; Drop/Add Begins
July 16 Thur Drop/Add Ends
July 23 Thur Last Day for Withdrawal/Audit
Aug 10 Mon Classes End
Aug 11 Tue Grades Due by 9 p.m.