The following are key questions from the March 26 college budget update, with responses. Due to technical issues with Zoom, the webinar was not recorded. View the webinar slides: ARC College Budget Address.
Questions
Has Los Rios spent all the funds from the CARES Act?
Yes, CARES funds have been disbursed to support various needs, such as, direct aid to students, laptops, hotspots, WiFi access, and so on.
Are the federal aid funds to the students in the form of grants?
Yes, funds are processed through our Financial Aid offices in the form of grants.
Why are we incentivizing students to take 15 units per semester when that is beyond full time and can affect students' ability to get the grades they need to be competitive applicants to some transfer institutions?
We have incentivized students at various levels – 6 units, 12 units, and 15 units. The 15-unit threshold is related to on-time completion for students pursuing an associate degree or ADT.
What were the differences in how FAFSA and CADAA eligible students were treated? How did the district circumvent those restrictions?
CARES funding restricted our ability to fund CADAA students, so we leveraged the Los Rios Colleges Foundation funding to provide the same level of funding. The Foundation does not have restrictions status.
Will plexiglass or other protective equipment be provided in classrooms or offices?
The district and colleges are exploring a variety of measures to ensure the safety of all employees and students. Plexiglass is one of many precautionary measures being discussed.
Why haven't there been more mentors, online training, and support for accessing equipment? How can instructors access resources and support?
A lack of understanding of the need and timing of transition are the primary reasons for gap in this area. This support will increase with the utilization of HEERF funding and employees will be informed about the resources once available.
Could CARES funds be used to build/retrofit additional single-stall or gender-neutral restrooms throughout the district?
No, CARES funding has been exhausted.
Where should we direct students for information about HEERF funds?
Students will receive direct payment through Financial Aid awards. All other resources will be announced to students through communication that will included process to access (that is, laptops, hotspots, and so on). Learn more about HEERF grants.
Can/will we invest in additional on campus mental health services for students as they return from isolation due to COVID-19?
Yes, we will expand services in person and through our mobile app, as well as maintain a telehealth option. ARC will provide trauma-informed training to employees and students.
The pandemic has shown us how important it is to have generous sick and family leave to take care of ourselves and our loved ones. Is the district considering improvements to employee family leave policies?
Family leave is being negotiated at this time.
Not all faculty have high-speed internet and computers at home. Is there funding to support those employees' needs?
Discussion is underway to address this gap and we hope to have insights about specifics in the near future.