PC Looks to Return to In-Classroom Learning -- College Coordinating with RIDOH

PC Looks to Return to In-Classroom Learning -- College Coordinating with RIDOH

After a breakout of coronavirus cases that now totals 279 at Providence College, the school’s President Kenneth Sicard has issued a statement stating that the institution is working with the RI Department of Health to return to in-classroom learning.

During the outbreak, RI Governor Gina Raimondo was critical of the PC as well as the University of Rhode Island students for not taking adhering to state policies. 

 

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Statement From Providence College President Rev. Kenneth R. Sicard, O.P., October 3, 2020:

"The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) has given Providence College provisional clearance to begin moving gradually toward in-person classes and the resumption of certain campus activities. We anticipate that in-person classes for some students will resume on a limited basis during the week of October 5th.  

The College will conduct further extensive testing of the student body during the week of October 5th. If our testing data reveal acceptable results throughout the week, and with the approval of RIDOH, we anticipate the full resumption of in-person classes on October 12.

Students who have left on-campus or off-campus residences during the stay-at-home period that began on Sept. 17 (e.g., returned to their permanent homes) will return on Sunday, October 4 and Monday, October 5.  These students must complete a point-of-origin test prior to returning and again be tested on campus upon their return.

Students will self-quarantine in their residence hall room or off-campus apartment until receiving documentation of a negative result from their repopulation test.  This includes wearing masks, and practicing physical distancing. PC will provide meals to students while they are in self-quarantine. 

The College’s stay-at home directive for students remains in place until further notice. Students should stay in their residence hall rooms/off-campus residences except for essential purposes. This includes travel to classes, obtaining essential supplies, and travel to work.

Students returning from states or territories on Rhode Island’s hotspot list must self-quarantine for 14 days in accordance with state law.

This plan, which is subject to change, represents a continuation of the College’s careful approach to managing PC’s COVID-19 outbreak. It combines various mitigation strategies – including continued aggressive testing protocols, mask mandates, and physical distancing directives – to help make possible a safe resumption of the fall semester. 

The College will continue to work closely with RIDOH to monitor the situation and to avoid further outbreaks."