An important announcement regarding the upcoming Winter session and Spring 2021 semester

Dear Peralta Community,

I am writing to provide an important announcement regarding the upcoming Winter session and Spring 2021 semester. We are facing a very delicate time with the ongoing crisis of COVID-19, and the recent wildfires that have ravaged our area. As such, our community remains in a declared public health emergency at the national, state and local level. Given the current health orders, safety protocols and restrictions, and expert health advice, it has been determined that the Peralta campuses (Berkeley City College, College of Alameda, Merritt College and Laney College) and facilities will remain closed through May 29, 2021. All classes for the Winter session and Spring 2021 semester will be delivered via a remote/online learning environment. An exception has been made for a very limited number of laboratory and CTE classes that cannot be conducted via a remote/online platform. Please be assured that all face-to-face laboratory and CTE classes will be monitored closely, and must adhere to strict safety protocols and restrictions.

Student services will continue to be offered online, including Admissions and Records, Financial Aid, and Counseling. As is currently the case, personnel performing essential functions may be required to work on-site. If you need access to campus, please check with your supervisor or college President’s Office to make arrangements.

We will continue conferring with public health officials and make an announcement by March regarding the delivery of Summer 2021 classes, and potential continued campus closure. 

While many of you may be eager to return to campus life, the health and safety of everyone in our community is the top priority at Peralta Community College District. Therefore, we will only return at the advice and guidance of public health officials, and when the necessary safety protocols are in place district-wide.

As you know, COVID-19 can spread from person-to-person. Everyone can help to prevent the spread by washing their hands often, staying at least 6 feet away from others, wearing a facial covering over your nose and mouth, and cleaning and disinfecting areas.

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all of the Administrators, Classified Staff and Faculty that have remained dedicated throughout this challenging time. We are truly a remarkable community.

If you require any support with your employment or benefits needs, please contact Chanelle Whittaker, Interim Vice Chancellor for Human Resources and Employee Relations at cwhittaker@peralta.edu.

The latest updates from Peralta regarding COVID-19 are available at the Safe Peralta website. 

All my best, and please be well! 

Dr. Carla Walter 

Acting Chancellor, Peralta Community College District