Johnathan Freeman Johnathan Freeman

Test of Peralta's Emergency Communication System coming at Noon on April 24, 2024

Dear Peralta Community, 

On Wednesday, April 24, 2024, at noon Pacific Daylight Time, the Peralta Community College District will be testing our emergency communication system, Rave Alert by Rave Mobile Safety (https://www.ravemobilesafety.com/products/rave-alert/). The Rave system lets us quickly contact students and employees by telephone, SMS text, and email in an emergency and provide safety instructions.

Dear Peralta Community, 

On Wednesday, April 24, 2024, at noon Pacific Daylight Time, the Peralta Community College District will be testing our emergency communication system, Rave Alert by Rave Mobile Safety (https://www.ravemobilesafety.com/products/rave-alert/). The Rave system lets us quickly contact students and employees by telephone, SMS text, and email in an emergency and provide safety instructions.

At Noon on Wednesday, April 24th, you can expect to receive: 

  1. An email from PCCD Alert <peralta@email.getrave.com> indicating the message is a test of our emergency communications system 

  2. An SMS or text message from 67283 or +1 (341) 888-7879 or some other number indicating the message is a test of our emergency communications system 

  3. A phone call or voicemail from the Peralta switchboard at +1(510)466-7200 or +1(341)888-7879 or some other number indicating the message is a test of our emergency communications system 

To make sure we can reach you in case of an emergency, please make sure your contact information is up-to-date in PeopleSoft.    

  • Students – sign in to the Peralta Student Portal and then select Campus Solutions and then select Profile to review and update your contact information. 

  • Employees – sign in to the Peralta Faculty/Staff Portal and then select HCM, then select Employee Self Service, and then select Personal Details to review and update your contact information.  

If you have questions about the upcoming test or the Rave Mobile Safety system, please contact Amy Marshall at amarshall@peralta.edu or Mark Johnson at markjohnson@peralta.edu.  

Thank you and be safe, 

Amy Marshall, Associate Director of Campus Public Safety 

Mark Johnson, Executive Director of Marketing, Communication & Public Relations

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Johnathan Freeman Johnathan Freeman

Merritt College COVID-19 Notification – April 3, 2024

Good morning, Merritt Family, 

I am writing to inform you that this morning I learned that an individual tested positive for COVID-19. Per CDC and ACPHD guidelines, this person will remain off campus for at least five days from the date of the positive test result (which was yesterday, April 2) and may return once they are no longer symptomatic. The person reported that they were on campus Tuesday, April 2.

Good morning, Merritt Family, 

 

I am writing to inform you that this morning I learned that an individual tested positive for COVID-19. Per CDC and ACPHD guidelines, this person will remain off campus for at least five days from the date of the positive test result (which was yesterday, April 2) and may return once they are no longer symptomatic. The person reported that they were on campus Tuesday, April 2.

While privacy guidelines preclude me from providing additional descriptive information, please know that the PCCD Office of Human Resources has been apprised of the positive test result so that they can notify the Alameda County Public Health Department and Cal/OSHA. In compliance with our district guidelines, I will continue to report COVID-19 cases as part of our ongoing efforts to keep everyone safe and informed.

For the most up-to-date information and resources for students, faculty/staff, and the community, I encourage you to visit https://safe.peralta.edu/

In CommUnity,

Dr. Lilia Chavez

Vice President of Student Services

Merritt College

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Johnathan Freeman Johnathan Freeman

Laney College Campus Closure 3/24 - 4/1

Dear Laney Community:

As a reminder, the campus will be closed to students, employees, and the public from Sunday the 24th through Monday, April 1 (Cesar Chavez holiday) due to a PG&E shutdown. 

Dear Laney Community:

As a reminder, the campus will be closed to students, employees, and the public from Sunday the 24th through Monday, April 1 (Cesar Chavez holiday) due to a PG&E shutdown. 

As power will be out during this time, the campus will not be available to employees or the public. While classes are not in session during this week, employees scheduled to work will be doing so remotely.

The College will reopen with electrical power resumed on April 2, 2024. 

Sincerely,

 

Rudy Besikof

Laney College President

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Johnathan Freeman Johnathan Freeman

College of Alameda Power Shutdown Friday, March 29

There will be a power shutoff to perform electrical work for the New Transportation Technology Center (NTTC). To perform this work, the campus will be closed for two days on Friday, 3/29, and Saturday, 3/30, as there will be no power to the campus.

Dear COA Community,

There will be a power shutoff to perform electrical work for the New Transportation Technology Center (NTTC). To perform this work, the campus will be closed for two days on Friday, 3/29, and Saturday, 3/30, as there will be no power to the campus. Staff will work remotely on 3/29 for the campus closure.

In preparation for the power shutdown work, Alten Construction will need to block off a portion of the road on Thursday 3/28 in order to pull wires into building C. This will take the entire day and a detour will be set up so cars will need to drive through the parking lot as seen in the photo below.

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation during this operation. We apologize for the inconvenience.

 

Dr. Pamela Luster

Acting President

College of Alameda

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Johnathan Freeman Johnathan Freeman

COVID-19 Case reported at the District Service Center - March 18, 2024

Dear District Colleagues,

We learned earlier today that an employee working at the District Office has tested positive for COVID-19. The employee was last here at the office on Friday, March 15, 2024. Because of privacy laws, we cannot identify the particular employee. Our colleagues, the PCCD Contact Tracers, will be reaching out to individuals who may have been exposed.

Dear District Colleagues,

We learned earlier today that an employee working at the District Office has tested positive for COVID-19. The employee was last here at the office on Friday, March 15, 2024. Because of privacy laws, we cannot identify the particular employee. Our colleagues, the PCCD Contact Tracers, will be reaching out to individuals who may have been exposed.

The health and well-being of our community is our highest priority. Being vaccinated, masking when appropriate, and following other recommended safety protocols such as washing your hands and covering your mouth when you sneeze or cough will help to mitigate its spread.

If you develop flu or other symptoms including dry cough and fever, please contact your medical provider and do not come to the office. As a response to protecting everyone’s health and safety, this message serves as a notification in accordance with state laws.

Please visit Safe Peralta for links to information and resources regarding COVID-19.

Stay safe and healthy!

Mark

Mark Johnson
Executive Director
Department of Marketing, Communication & Public Relations
Peralta Community College District

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Johnathan Freeman Johnathan Freeman

BCC Campus Notice of COVID-19 Exposure - February 9, 2023

Dear Berkeley City College Community,

I am writing to inform you that a member of the BCC community has reported testing positive for COVID-19.  The Berkeley City College leadership was provided with this information this morning. To protect everyone’s health and safety in compliance with the law, this message serves as notification.

Dear Berkeley City College Community,  

  

I am writing to inform you that a member of the BCC community has reported testing positive for COVID-19.  The Berkeley City College leadership was provided with this information this morning. To protect everyone’s health and safety in compliance with the law, this message serves as notification. Due to privacy laws, we cannot identify the persons who tested positive for the virus.

  

The individual was last on campus on Wednesday, February 7, 2024. Per CDC and ACPHD guidelines, they will remain off campus for at least five days from the date of the positive test result and may return if they are no longer symptomatic. Also, their information will be forwarded to the appropriate channels for county reporting.     

 

Those with exposure to the individual are being notified per contract tracing guidelines. Please be advised that our custodial colleagues clean all active teaching and learning spaces nightly as part of regular maintenance.  

     

For up-to-date information and resources for students, faculty, staff, and the community, please visit https://safe.peralta.edu/ .

    

We appreciate everyone’s continued diligence in supporting our students, and one another.

Warm regards,

Denise

 

Denise Richardson, Ed.D.

Interim President

Berkeley City College

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Johnathan Freeman Johnathan Freeman

District Service Center COVID Case Report - January 24, 2024

Dear District Colleagues,

We learned earlier today that an employee working at the District Office has tested positive for COVID-19.  The employee was last here at the office on Friday, January 19, 2024. Note that this is a different case than the one reported on January 22nd.

Dear District Colleagues,


We learned earlier today that an employee working at the District Office has tested positive for COVID-19.  The employee was last here at the office on Friday, January 19, 2024. Note that this is a different case than the one reported on January 22nd. Because of privacy laws, we cannot identify the particular employee. Our colleagues, the PCCD Contact Tracers, will be reaching out to individuals who may have been exposed. 

The health and well-being of our community is our highest priority. Being vaccinated, masking when appropriate, and following other recommended safety protocols such as washing your hands and covering your mouth when you sneeze or cough will help to mitigate its spread.  

If you develop flu or other symptoms including dry cough and fever, please contact your medical provider and do not come to the office. As a response to protecting everyone’s health and safety, this message serves as a notification in accordance with state laws.

Please visit https://safe.peralta.edu/ for links to information and resources regarding COVID-19.


Stay safe and healthy!


Mark

Mark Johnson
Executive Director
Department of Marketing, Communication & Public Relations
Peralta Community College District

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Johnathan Freeman Johnathan Freeman

District Service Center COVID Case Report - January 22, 2024

Dear District Colleagues,

We learned earlier today that an employee working at the District Office has tested positive for COVID-19. The employee was last here at the office on Friday, January 19, 2024. Because of privacy laws, we cannot identify the particular employee. Our colleagues, the PCCD Contact Tracers, will be reaching out to individuals who may have been exposed on Friday.

Dear District Colleagues,

We learned earlier today that an employee working at the District Office has tested positive for COVID-19. The employee was last here at the office on Friday, January 19, 2024. Because of privacy laws, we cannot identify the particular employee. Our colleagues, the PCCD Contact Tracers, will be reaching out to individuals who may have been exposed on Friday.

The health and well-being of our community is our highest priority. Being vaccinated, masking when appropriate, and following other recommended safety protocols such as washing your hands and covering your mouth when you sneeze or cough will help to mitigate its spread.

If you develop flu or other symptoms including dry cough and fever, please contact your medical provider and do not come to the office. As a response to protecting everyone’s health and safety, this message serves as a notification in accordance with state laws.

Please visit https://safe.peralta.edu/ for information and resources regarding COVID-19 for students, faculty, and staff.

Stay safe and healthy!

Mark

Mark Johnson
Executive Director
Department of Marketing, Communication & Public Relations
Peralta Community College District

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Johnathan Freeman Johnathan Freeman

Laney College Campus Closure - January 10, 2024

The Laney College campus will be undergoing electrical maintenance on Wednesday, January 10, 2024. During this time, the campus will be closed. We are expected to re-open on Thursday, January 11.

The Laney College campus will be undergoing electrical maintenance on Wednesday, January 10, 2024. During this time, the campus will be closed. We are expected to re-open on Thursday, January 11.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

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Johnathan Freeman Johnathan Freeman

District Service Center COVID-19 Notice - December 1, 2023

Dear District Colleagues,

We learned late last night that an employee working at the District Office has tested positive for COVID-19. The employee was last here at the office on Wednesday, November 29, 2023. Because of privacy laws, we cannot identify the particular employee. To be clear, this is the second reported case this week at the District Office and is from a different individual and department from the notice sent yesterday.

Dear District Colleagues,

We learned late last night that an employee working at the District Office has tested positive for COVID-19. The employee was last here at the office on Wednesday, November 29, 2023. Because of privacy laws, we cannot identify the particular employee. To be clear, this is the second reported case this week at the District Office and is from a different individual and department from the notice sent yesterday.

The health and well-being of our community is our highest priority. Being vaccinated, masking when appropriate, and following other recommended safety protocols such as washing your hands and covering your mouth when you sneeze or cough will help to mitigate its spread.

If you develop flu or other symptoms including dry cough and fever, please contact your medical provider and do not come to the office. As a response to protecting everyone’s health and safety, this message serves as a notification in accordance with state laws.

Please visit https://safe.peralta.edu/on and resources regarding COVID-19 for students, faculty, and staff.

Stay safe and healthy!

Mark Johnson
Executive Director
Department of Marketing, Communication & Public Relations
Peralta Community College District

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Johnathan Freeman Johnathan Freeman

District Service Center COVID-19 Notification - November 30, 2023

Dear District Colleagues,

We learned earlier today that an employee working at the District Office has tested positive for COVID-19. The employee was last here at the office on Monday, November 27, 2023. Because of privacy laws, we cannot identify the particular employee.

Dear District Colleagues,

We learned earlier today that an employee working at the District Office has tested positive for COVID-19. The employee was last here at the office on Monday, November 27, 2023. Because of privacy laws, we cannot identify the particular employee.

The health and well-being of our community is our highest priority. Being vaccinated, masking when appropriate, and following other recommended safety protocols such as washing your hands and covering your mouth when you sneeze or cough will help to mitigate its spread.

If you develop flu or other symptoms including dry cough and fever, please contact your medical provider and do not come to the office. As a response to protecting everyone’s health and safety, this message serves as a notification in accordance with state laws.

Please visit https://safe.peralta.edu/ for up-to-date information and resources regarding COVID-19 for students, faculty, and staff.

Stay safe and healthy!

Mark Johnson
Executive Director
Department of Marketing, Communication & Public Relations
Peralta Community College District

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Johnathan Freeman Johnathan Freeman

Merritt College COVID-19 Notification: October 31, 2023

Good morning, Merritt Community.

I am writing to inform you that last night we learned that an individual tested positive for COVID-19. Per CDC and ACPHD guidelines, this person will remain off campus for at least five days from the date of the positive test result (which was yesterday, October 30) and may return once they are no longer symptomatic.

Good morning, Merritt Community.

I am writing to inform you that last night we learned that an individual tested positive for COVID-19. Per CDC and ACPHD guidelines, this person will remain off campus for at least five days from the date of the positive test result (which was yesterday, October 30) and may return once they are no longer symptomatic. The person reported that Thursday, October 26, was the last time they were on-site. Those who we know were in contact with this individual are being notified.

While privacy guidelines preclude me from providing additional descriptive information, please know that the PCCD Office of Human Resources has been apprised of the positive test result so that they can notify the Alameda County Public Health Department and Cal/OSHA. In compliance with our district guidelines, I will continue to report COVID-19 cases as part of our ongoing efforts to keep everyone safe and informed.

For the most up-to-date information and resources for students, faculty/staff, and the community, I encourage you to visit https://safe.peralta.edu/

Thank you and take care.

David

David M. Johnson, Ph.D.

President

Merritt College

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Johnathan Freeman Johnathan Freeman

Great Shake Out-Oct 19 (10:19 am)

Good Afternoon, we are reregistered for the Great Shake Out drill on October 19 at 10:19am. We want to encourage the campus community to participate and learn the simple but critical safety steps to preparing and staying safe during an emergency.

Good Afternoon, we are reregistered for the Great Shake Out drill on October 19 at 10:19am. We want to encourage the campus community to participate and learn the simple but critical safety steps to preparing and staying safe during an emergency. The drill is a self-led drill, participants practice how to "Drop, Cover and Hold On". For more information, we listed the recommended earthquake safety actions. We also listed emergency preparedness on campus safety and the earthquake safety video to help with coordinating the drill. If you have any questions, please let me know. Everyone have a great day!

  • Drop - where you are, onto your hands and knees

  • Cover - your head and neck with one arm and hand, as you crawl for shelter under a nearby table or desk

  • Hold On - to shelter with one hand until the shaking stops (remain on your knees and covering your head and neck with your other arm and hand).

If You're Near a Sturdy Desk or Table (Earthquake Safety Video Series) - YouTube

https://news.caloes.ca.gov/emergency-preparedness-on-campus/Safety - Plan

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Johnathan Freeman Johnathan Freeman

Merritt College: Emergency Power Shutdown Saturday, October 21 from 7am - 11am

Good evening, Merritt Community.

Please note that this Saturday, October 21, there will be a power outage from approximately 7am to 11am. The shutdown is part of a project to restore power to the sub-electrical panel inside Substation B Vault that feeds exterior lighting.

Good evening, Merritt Community.

Please note that this Saturday, October 21, there will be a power outage from approximately 7am to 11am. The shutdown is part of a project to restore power to the sub-electrical panel inside Substation B Vault that feeds exterior lighting. The power shutdown will impact Building F, Building D, Interim Housing, and CDC but it will also mean that internet and phone connectivity will be down campus-wide for several hours.

I will be the administrator on call so please feel free to email me or call me at 510-325-7971 should the need arise.

Thanks and stay safe.

David

David M. Johnson, Ph.D.
President
Merritt College

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Johnathan Freeman Johnathan Freeman

Laney College Childcare Center Power Outage - October 9, 2023

Dear Laney Community,

A few moments ago we were made aware of an outage at the Childcare Center that is likely to last a significant portion of the morning. Parents of children are being contacted by staff, and per policy, the Center will be closed for the duration of the outage.

Dear Laney Community,

A few moments ago we were made aware of an outage at the Childcare Center that is likely to last a significant portion of the morning. Parents of children are being contacted by staff, and per policy, the Center will be closed for the duration of the outage.

If you have students with children in the Center, please excuse them this morning so that they may pick up their children and consider allowing makeups of any work missed this morning, as these are circumstances that are completely beyond their control.

If you have children in the care of the Center, please notify your supervisor so that you can pick them up and discuss arrangements for the rest of your workday.

I hope that all who are impacted by this get through the day all right. Thank you as always for your support of each other.

Sincerely,

Rudy Besikof, Ed. D.
Laney College President

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Johnathan Freeman Johnathan Freeman

Laney College COVID-19 Announcement - September 27, 2023

Dear Laney Community:

Yesterday and today the College learned of an individual on the Laney campus who has tested positive for COVID-19. They were last at Laney today, September 27, which is also the date of their positive test. Per CDC and ACPHD guidelines, this individual will remain off campus for at least five days from the date of the positive test result and may return once they are no longer symptomatic.

Dear Laney Community:

Yesterday and today the College learned of an individual on the Laney campus who has tested positive for COVID-19. They were last at Laney today, September 27, which is also the date of their positive test.

Per CDC and ACPHD guidelines, this individual will remain off campus for at least five days from the date of the positive test result and may return once they are no longer symptomatic. As the positive results were from an individual who was in spaces in the different upper B/C areas of campus, the areas in question have been reported to Administrative Services for immediate cleaning and sanitization by Facilities and Campus Operations. If you have questions, please contact your supervisor. Additionally, information about these positive tests has been/will be forwarded to the County.

While privacy guidelines preclude me from providing additional descriptive information, please know that the PCCD Office of Human Resources as well as Risk Management and General Services have been apprised of the positive test result so that they can notify the Alameda County Public Health Department and Cal/OSHA. In compliance with our district guidelines, I will continue to report COVID-19 cases as part of our ongoing efforts to keep everyone safe and informed. We ask that you abide by Federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Guidelines to protect your health and those around you. They are as follows:

  • Employees, students, and visitors to campus are required to wear a mask in classrooms or offices if the faculty member requires it on the syllabus or the individual occupying the workspace requests it.

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.

  • If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.

  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

  • Follow all recommendations provided by the CDC.

If you have medical questions, please contact your healthcare provider. Students with concerns can contact the Roots Clinic at (510) 533-1248 (please provide your student ID during the call).

If you, or someone in your household, shows COVID-19-related symptoms, please notify Human Resources, your immediate supervisor, your Vice President, or me. Be assured that we will maintain confidentiality to the highest degree possible.

As everyone’s health and safety are our priority, we will continue to assess the situation and provide updates should there be further developments.

Please visit https://safe.peralta.edu/ for the most up-to-date information and resources regarding COVID-19 for students, faculty/staff, and the community, including testing availability through the four college campuses and the PCCD office.

We appreciate everyone continuing to do their best to support our students and colleagues.

Thank you and take care.

Sincerely,

Rudy Besikof, Ed. D.
Laney College President

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Johnathan Freeman Johnathan Freeman

Merritt COVID-19 Notification: September 25, 2023

Good evening, Merritt Community.

I am writing to inform you that today we learned that an individual tested positive for COVID-19. Per CDC and ACPHD guidelines, this person will remain off campus for at least five days from the date of the positive test result (which was this morning, September 25) and may return once they are no longer symptomatic.

Good evening, Merritt Community.

I am writing to inform you that today we learned that an individual tested positive for COVID-19. Per CDC and ACPHD guidelines, this person will remain off campus for at least five days from the date of the positive test result (which was this morning, September 25) and may return once they are no longer symptomatic. The person reported that Thursday, September 21 was the last time they were on-site. Those who we know were in contact with this individual are being notified.

While privacy guidelines preclude me from providing additional descriptive information, please know that the PCCD Office of Human Resources has been apprised of the positive test result so that they can notify the Alameda County Public Health Department and Cal/OSHA. In compliance with our district guidelines, I will continue to report COVID-19 cases as part of our ongoing efforts to keep everyone safe and informed.

For the most up-to-date information and resources for students, faculty/staff, and the community, I encourage you to visit https://safe.peralta.edu/

Thank you and take care.

David

David M. Johnson, Ph.D.
President
Merritt College

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Johnathan Freeman Johnathan Freeman

All Clear: Incident - E. 10th Street Near Laney Campus

Dear Laney Community:

I am writing to update you on a situation that occurred within the last hour that has been resolved.

Two suspects in an armed robbery came in proximity of the Laney Campus, East 10th Street side, prompting a brief (10 minutes at most) lockdown of part of the campus, including the Fieldhouse, Childcare Center, and Cosmetology.

Dear Laney Community:

I am writing to update you on a situation that occurred within the last hour that has been resolved.

Two suspects in an armed robbery came in proximity of the Laney Campus, East 10th Street side, prompting a brief (10 minutes at most) lockdown of part of the campus, including the Fieldhouse, Childcare Center, and Cosmetology. Almost immediately, the suspects were apprehended off campus by Oakland Police, and lockdowns were subsequently lifted, with the suspects in custody.

Aside from these brief closures, operations on campus remained uninterrupted and all have now resumed.

Should there be further updates, either VP Del Rosario or I will inform the campus. For any media-related requests, please refer individuals to Mark Johnson, at the District Public Relations Office.

Sincerely,

Rudy Besikof, Ed. D.
Laney College President

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Johnathan Freeman Johnathan Freeman

Laney College September 20, 2023: Notice Regarding Outdoor Work, On Campus Classes for Today

Dear Laney Community:

Please be advised that the Air Quality Index for Oakland has surpassed 150, meaning that employees should not be working outside. This also includes not holding classes outdoors.

Dear Laney Community:

Please be advised that the Air Quality Index for Oakland has surpassed 150, meaning that employees should not be working outside. This also includes not holding classes outdoors.

Also, for faculty teaching in person who wish to cancel class today, please communicate with your dean as soon as possible so that we can support you as you notify students.

Sincerely,

Rudy Besikof, Ed. D.
Laney College President

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Johnathan Freeman Johnathan Freeman

District Service Center COVID-19 Notification - September 20, 2023

Dear District Office Employees:

We learned earlier today that an employee working at the District Office has tested positive for COVID-19. The employee was last here at the office on September 15, 2023. Because of privacy laws, we cannot identify the particular employee.

Dear District Office Employees:

We learned earlier today that an employee working at the District Office has tested positive for COVID-19. The employee was last here at the office on September 15, 2023. Because of privacy laws, we cannot identify the particular employee.

The health and well-being of our community is our highest priority. Being vaccinated, masking when appropriate, and following other recommended safety protocols such as washing your hands and covering your mouth when you sneeze or cough will help to mitigate its spread.

If you develop flu or other symptoms including dry cough and fever, please contact your medical provider and do not come to the office. As a response to protecting everyone’s health and safety, this message serves as a notification in accordance with state laws.

Please visit https://safe.peralta.edu/ for up-to-date information and resources regarding COVID-19 for students, faculty, and staff.

Stay safe and healthy!

Mark

Mark Johnson
Executive Director
Department of Marketing, Communication & Public Relations
Peralta Community College District

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