Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)

The novel coronavirus, now called COVID-19, is making headlines in the U.S. and around the world, and the situation is evolving. Yakima Valley College is closely monitoring the spread of the coronavirus and following the lead of public health officials to do everything possible to keep our community safe and healthy. For immediate questions or concerns, please contact the Washington Department of Health Call Center: 1.800.525.0127 and press #.

See our Current Services for additional information on all services. More information on returning to campus: Campus Re-Entry.

Coronavirus COVID-19 Updates

As we approach the beginning of Fall Quarter, I wanted to share a reminder of Yakima Valley College’s COVID safety protocols. Your diligence in following safety protocols over the past two and a half years has helped protect the safety of our entire community. Please know how much I appreciate your efforts, which remain essential as we return to more regular operations on campus this quarter.

Positive Test/Exposure

If you have a positive COVID test, or if you are sick and suspect that you have COVID but do not yet have test results, do not come to campus. Get tested if you haven’t already done so. YVC continues to follow the CDC’s guidance regarding isolation periods for COVID-19 positive tests and precautions to take if you were exposed to COVID-19. Students taking in-person courses who have a positive test or are waiting on test results should contact their instructors directly to discuss work for those courses. Questions can be directed to Campus Safety at 509.574.4610.

Masks

Wearing masks is voluntary while indoors on campus with the following exceptions:

  • Masks are mandatory in YVC’s dental hygiene clinic, where masks continue to be required at all times per Washington state requirements for health care facilities.
  • An individual returning to campus after a positive COVID test and the required 5-day isolation period must wear a well-fitting mask for days 6-10 after the onset of symptoms or positive test result per CDC guidance.
  • Anyone who has had a close exposure to COVID-19 must wear a mask for the full 10 days after exposure and should get tested at least 5 full days after your last exposure per CDC guidance.

We support individual masking decisions by those individuals on campus and ask everyone to be respectful of the choices of others.

Physical Distancing

We encourage maintaining 3-foot physical distancing when possible while indoors.

Vaccinations

We continue to urge everyone to get vaccinated and receive boosters as the best way to reduce the chance of infection and serious illness for yourself and others.

Thank you for continuing to care for one another. As we resume a full schedule of in-person services, your grace and respect for all members of the YVC community will help us successfully navigate our return to regular operations.

Sincerely,


Linda Kaminski
President, Yakima Valley College

Previous Coronavirus Updates

March 11, 2022

Letter from College President to YVC Community

Thank you for your efforts to keep your fellow students, employees and visitors safe as we’ve dealt with the COVID pandemic over these past two years. Your efforts have contributed to helping our community make significant progress as the Omicron wave recedes here in the Yakima Valley and across Washington state.

In light of this progress, as well as consultation with members of our college community and local health officials, Yakima Valley College has decided to follow the lead of Washington Gov. Jay Inslee and make indoor masking on campus voluntary starting on Sunday, March 20. That said, we strongly support individual masking decisions by anyone on campus and ask everyone to be respectful of the choices of others.

In addition, starting on March 20, we will no longer require students, employees or visitors to complete a health assessment when coming to campus or to observe 3-foot physical distancing.

Please note that YVC’s current COVID protocols, which require masking indoors, will remain in place until March 20. We appreciate you continuing to observe our safety protocols until that time. In addition, masking will continue to be required after March 20 in our dental hygiene clinic in accordance with Washington state requirements for health care facilities.

Our college will continue to follow the CDC’s guidance regarding quarantine and isolation periods for COVID-19 positive tests and exposure. Do NOT come to campus if you are exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19. The Omicron variant produces lesser symptoms in vaccinated individuals such as a runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, or headache. If you experience these symptoms, get tested and stay home. Please read the CDC’s guidance for full details about what you should do. We also continue to urge everyone to get vaccinated and receive boosters as the best way to reduce the chance of infection and serious illness for yourself and others.

We understand that this change in our mask policy will be welcome news to many, but that others will disagree. We assure you that this decision was made after careful consideration and with a sincere commitment to the health and safety of our campus community. As always, our college will continue to monitor the data, listen to health professionals, and confer with members of our community. Thank you for joining together and doing your part to help protect the safety of our campus and community.

Linda Kaminski

President, Yakima Valley College

January 12, 2022

Letter from College President to YVC Community

Thank you for your vigilance in following Yakima Valley College’s COVID safety protocols. Based on careful consideration of updated guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and feedback from our community, we are making a few changes to the safety protocols shared in the email update sent on Monday, January 10.

Isolation/Quarantine After Positive COVID Test or Exposure

Starting immediately, YVC will follow the CDC’s new guidance regarding quarantine and isolation periods for COVID-19 and the Omicron variant. Please read the CDC’s guidance for full details about what you should do. Following is a summary:

  • If you test positive for COVID-19 or have symptoms, regardless of vaccination status, stay home and isolate for at least 5 days. If you have symptoms, you can end isolation if you are fever-free for 24 hours (without the use of fever-reducing medication) and your symptoms are improving. If you did not have symptoms, you can end isolation after at least 5 full days after your positive test.
  • If you were exposed to COVID-19 and are NOT up-to-date on COVID-19 vaccinations, stay home and quarantine for at least 5 full days. Get tested at least 5 days after you last had close contact with someone with COVID-19.
  • If you were exposed to COVID-19 and are up-to-date with vaccination OR had confirmed COVID-19 within the past 90 days (you tested positive using a viral test), you do not need to stay home unless you develop symptoms. Even if you don’t develop symptoms, get tested at least 5 days after you last had close contact with someone with COVID-19. Watch for symptoms until 10 days after you last had close contact with someone with COVID-19.

Notification of COVID Exposure or Positive Test

Students who are taking online classes only and who have not been on campus do not need to report if they have tested positive for COVID or had close contact with someone testing positive.

Only those students who are taking in-person classes or who have visited campus need to immediately report positive COVID tests or close contacts (within 6 feet of someone for a cumulative total of 15 minutes or more over a 24-hour period) with someone who has COVID-19, to Campus Safety at 509.574.4610. Do not come to campus until you have isolated or quarantined for the appropriate length of time as outlined above.

Students taking in-person courses who have a positive test or close contact should contact their instructors directly to discuss work for those courses.

In-person classes with a positive case

If a single positive COVID case is reported in an in-person class, that class may continue. If you have been consistent in wearing your mask, have observed 3-foot physical distancing, and are symptom-free, you should be able to continue attending. We encourage students to gauge their own level of risk and talk with their instructors directly regarding questions about attending.

More details about YVC’s COVID safety protocols are available online. We appreciate your continued support in protecting the safety of our community.

Linda Kaminski
President, Yakima Valley College

January 10, 2022

Letter from College President to YVC Community

We continue to closely monitor the prevalence of the COVID-19 Omicron variant across Washington state and here in our community. We know how valuable in-person learning is for our student’s education and career preparation — and we have been successful with the stringent safety protocols in place for classes taking place on our campuses since Summer 2020.

In-person instruction and services this quarter are continuing as scheduled this quarter, and we need your help following YVC’s safety protocols to make sure we can maintain these plans. Please read this entire message to understand what you can do to help protect our campus community.

Daily Health Check
Before you come to campus each day AND when you leave campus, complete a health checkDo NOT come to campus if you are exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19. The Omicron variant produces lesser symptoms in vaccinated individuals such as a runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, or headache. If you experience these symptoms, get tested and stay home.

Quarantine/Isolation
If you test positive for COVID or have been in close contact (within 6 feet of someone for a cumulative total of 15 minutes or more over a 24-hour period) with someone who has COVID-19, report it immediately to Campus Safety at 509.574.4610. Do not come to campus until you have quarantined/isolated for the appropriate length of time:

  • If you test positive for COVID or experience COVID-19 like symptoms, quarantine for 10 days from the day symptoms initially appeared.
  • If you develop symptoms after testing positive, your 10-day isolation period must start over.
  • If you have been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19, quarantine for 14 days after your last contact.

If you need to make a COVID contact report, Campus Safety will collect information including the date of exposure, date of symptoms, classes enrolled in, names of instructors, and locations on campus visited after exposure.

Wear a Mask
Masks remain required indoors on campus for everyone. Because of Omicron’s transmissibility, for your own health and safety and that of others around you, we now strongly recommend at least a surgical mask or KN95/N95 masks, not just cloth masks or gaiters. The mask mandate will be actively enforced at the college.

Maintain 3-foot Distancing
Maintaining 3-foot social distancing is required indoors for everyone.

Contact Tracing
Following a COVID contact report, other potential close contacts will be informed of the date and time of the exposure. Personal information about any student or employee making a COVID report will be kept confidential. Any decisions regarding changes in classroom instruction will be made and managed by the instructor, dean, and vice president for instruction and student services.

Get Vaccinated and Boosted!
Full vaccination and boosters for eligible individuals remain the surest way to avoid COVID or have less severe symptoms if you catch it. If you have not yet been vaccinated or if you need a booster shot, you can find nearby opportunities to get vaccinated free of charge at Vaccinate WA.

Thank you for your vigilance in keeping our community safe. By following these safety protocols, you are helping protect the health of your fellow Yaks.

Linda Kaminski
President, Yakima Valley College

October 11, 2021

Letter from College President to Students

Thanks to the many members of the Yakima Valley College community who have taken advantage of COVID vaccines and everyone’s diligence in following campus safety protocols, we’ve successfully begun phasing in more on-site classes and services this fall. With progress continuing to be made in the Yakima Valley’s vaccination rates, we look forward to carefully phasing in additional in-person classes and student services during winter quarter.

For winter quarter, our goal is to offer approximately one-third of classes in either a fully on-campus or hybrid format. Over the coming weeks, academic leadership and faculty will work together to determine which winter quarter courses will phase in some on-campus component. Then, in the spring quarter, our goal is to offer half of the classes either fully on-campus or in a hybrid format.

Additional information about which winter quarter classes will have an on-campus component will be shared later this month. Numerous online class options will continue to be available in winter quarter for those who prefer that option.

We also expect to have expanded options for in-person student services in winter quarter. Information about those services will be shared by email and social media, as well as posted online.

YVC continues to encourage all students to get vaccinated against COVID-19, but we will not require vaccinations as a condition of learning on campus. The best thing you can do to protect your health and safety — and to protect the safety of our entire community — is to get vaccinated against COVID-19. If you have not yet been vaccinated or if you need a booster shot, you can find opportunities to get vaccinated free of charge at Vaccinate WA.

Please note that the college will continue to require that all students, faculty and staff follow safety measures that have been put in place, including:

  • Wearing masks in common spaces indoors, regardless of vaccination status
  • Maintaining 3-foot social distancing when inside
  • Completing a health screening form for every visit to campus (at both the beginning and end of each visit)

As always, we will carefully monitor and follow the guidance of public health officials as the situation evolves in our region and state. Please check out our COVID-19 web page for regular updates.

I wish you success in your classes this quarter and encourage you to take advantage of the many resources YVC offers to help you complete your degree or certificate. Your commitment to pursuing your dreams in the face of adversity is an inspiration to all of our faculty and staff.

Linda Kaminski
President, Yakima Valley College

August 2, 2021

Letter from College President

Dear YVC Community,

Over the past year, we’ve all had to adapt to a worldwide pandemic virtually overnight. We’ve moved to remote classes, cancelled in-person social events, implemented mask requirements and maintained social distancing. The good news is that with many students, faculty and staff taking advantage of COVID vaccines, this fall we can begin to phase in some additional in-person classes and some student services, while continuing to provide remote options as you balance your life responsibilities.

Many of you have been anxiously wondering what fall quarter will look like. After reviewing the Governor’s new COVID Proclamation for Institutions of Higher Education and many thoughtful discussions, we have made the following decisions for fall quarter.

Vaccinations encouraged, but not required

Yakima Valley College strongly encourages students and employees to get vaccinated against COVID-19, but we will not require vaccinations as a condition of learning and working on campus. That said, the Governor’s Office is requiring all colleges and universities to ask vaccinated students to supply their vaccination information if they take in-person classes. Here at YVC, this will likely take the form of an online survey that vaccinated students taking in-person classes will fill out with the date and type of their vaccinations or by submitting an image of their vaccination card. Please note that this is a legal requirement under the Governor’s proclamation, but it will not affect your ability to work and learn on campus. We will provide more information about submitting this information soon.

Physical distancing will continue but at 3 feet rather than 6 feet

Students, faculty and staff will need to maintain three feet of distance when inside a building. This is a welcome change from the 6-foot distancing that was implemented last year. For programs in which 3-foot distancing is not possible, we will continue to require other types of safeguards.

Masking is required for everyone inside campus buildings

The Governor’s proclamation requires that all unvaccinated students wear masks while inside buildings on campus. Since we will not know the vaccination status of individual students, we will continue a mask mandate for everyone on campus, regardless of whether they are vaccinated. Masking will help protect the health and safety of our entire community, especially in light of new COVID variants and the July 28 recommendation by the Governor and Yakima Health District that everyone wear masks in public indoor settings as a deterrent to escalating case numbers. You will not need to wear a mask while outdoors.

Health screenings

Students, faculty and staff who enter buildings on campus will need to continue screening their own health before they come to campus. Please continue to use our online health screening form for students and make sure to complete it both before your arrival and when you leave campus. You can also access the form via the “Campus Re-Entry” link in the yellow stripe at the top of the college’s homepage.

Classes and activities will remain a mix of in-person and online

This fall, you’ll see some additional in-person classes and services available on campus, while others will continue in remote form. Plans for this phased-in restoration of on-site activities and operations are being developed and more details will be shared as they become available. Please note that the college will continue to adapt as COVID-19 public health guidance changes. We encourage you to visit our COVID-19 web page for the latest updates.

What you can do to prepare for fall term

The best thing all students and employees can do to protect their health and safety is to get vaccinated against COVID-19. If you have not yet been vaccinated, you can find opportunities to get vaccinated free of charge at Vaccinate WA. Also, please check out our COVID-19 web page for regular updates.

On behalf of the faculty and staff at Yakima Valley College, I want to express our deepest gratitude for your resilience and hard work as you’ve continued to pursue your educational goals in the midst of a pandemic and for your patience as we strive to keep everyone safe. Enjoy the remainder of summer, and we look forward to providing the educational opportunities required for your degree or certificate, whether online or in person, this fall.

Linda Kaminski

President, Yakima Valley College

June 30, 2021

Letter from College President

Dear YVC Community,

On June 30, Gov. Jay Inslee issued new COVID safety guidance for the state’s institutions of higher education, effective July 1. Among the changes in these new guidelines for colleges is a reduction in required physical distancing from 6 feet to 3 feet.

This new guidance is a welcome milestone, and as a result, Yakima Valley College will be able to start resuming some in-person student services starting Fall quarter. I want to emphasize that the governor’s proclamation does not change our earlier announcement regarding online instruction. The college is assessing whether some additional classes may be able to meet in-person during the Fall quarter. As additional class choices become available we will communicate those options to students.

The college is currently exploring options for in-person services that can be offered given the state’s revised guidelines. More details will be shared as those plans are developed this summer. In the meantime, here are a few important things to know about Fall quarter:

  • All students, faculty and staff will be required to wear masks while inside a building on campus.
  • While some student services will be available in-person with safety protocols in place, we will continue to provide remote options for all services.
  • Vaccination will not be required to access classes or student services except for those programs in which it is required by external partners, such as clinical site placements.
  • Individuals who are vaccinated will still be required to wear a mask while inside a building on campus.

I’d like to thank all of our students, faculty and staff for your resilience and commitment to protecting the health of our community. Your efforts have helped make it possible for us to start returning to campus. We have all been challenged, and I encourage students to take advantage of all the supports that are available — you can learn more about those below.

Stay safe,

Linda Kaminski

President, Yakima Valley College

Support for your success

  • If you were unable to succeed in an online course and had to drop a class, the financial aid rules during the pandemic allow us to preserve your eligibility for financial aid. There is an appeal process available to students who failed a class in order to maintain financial aid eligibility.
  • Additional financial aid is available to help with expenses related to the pandemic. That money is expected to be available for both the Summer and Fall quarters.
  • Students who have not previously qualified for federal financial aid due to lack of documentation can now receive emergency financial aid.
  • Students attending part-time can receive financial aid.
  • The college will continue to provide access to laptop computers and accessories to help students access online classes.
  • More information about student services such as tutoring and advising is available online.

April 14, 2021

Letter from College President

We have reached the moment when we must proceed with planning for our college’s course schedule and operations for Fall Quarter so that you and our faculty and staff can be adequately prepared. Based on the state’s restrictions for institutions of higher education, we will continue to offer most of our classes virtually, with exceptions for some in-person labs in specific programs, in the Fall Quarter.

We will also continue to maintain closed campuses with no in-person events and all services provided virtually. A decision about Winter Quarter will be made at a future date.

Thank you all for your commitment to pursuing your educational goals during these challenging times. I understand our shared desire to return to regular operations, but we must continue to safeguard the health and safety of our students and employees, as well as their families.

I encourage you to regularly visit our online services page to explore and take advantage of the many services available to you. This includes our Student Services Virtual Lobby to answer your questions related to admissions, registration, and financial aid. The Virtual Lobby is open Monday from 2 to 6 p.m. and Tuesday through Thursday from noon to 4 p.m.; after entering the lobby a staff member will direct you to the department best suited to assist you.

I wish you good health and success in your studies.

Dr. Linda Kaminski
President, Yakima Valley College

March 12, 2021

Letter from College President

We have reached the moment when we must proceed with planning for our college’s course schedule and operations for Fall Quarter so that you and our faculty and staff can be adequately prepared. Based on the state’s restrictions for institutions of higher education, we will continue to offer most of our classes virtually, with exceptions for some in-person labs in specific programs, in the Fall Quarter.

We will also continue to maintain closed campuses with no in-person events and all services provided virtually. A decision about Winter Quarter will be made at a future date.

Thank you all for your commitment to pursuing your educational goals during these challenging times. I understand our shared desire to return to regular operations, but we must continue to safeguard the health and safety of our students and employees, as well as their families.

I encourage you to regularly visit our online services page to explore and take advantage of the many services available to you. This includes our Student Services Virtual Lobby to answer your questions related to admissions, registration, and financial aid. The Virtual Lobby is open Monday from 2 to 6 p.m. and Tuesday through Thursday from noon to 4 p.m.; after entering the lobby a staff member will direct you to the department best suited to assist you.

I wish you good health and success in your studies.

Dr. Linda Kaminski
President, Yakima Valley College

January 11, 2021

SUBJECT: Spring and Summer Quarter Classes

Based on Yakima County’s current COVID data, we will continue to offer most of our classes virtually, with the current exceptions for some in-person labs in specific programs, throughout the Spring Quarter and the Summer Quarter.  Our priority continues to be promoting the health and safety of our students and employees, as well as their families.

We will also continue to maintain closed campuses with no in-person events and all services provided virtually. Making this decision now will enable our entire college community to be adequately prepared for the start of the Spring and Summer Quarters.  Decisions for Fall Quarter will be announced at a future date. 

Thank you all for your patience and perseverance in pursuing your educational goals during these challenging times. I encourage you to regularly visit our online services page to explore and take advantage of the many services available to you. This includes a recently launched Student Services Virtual Lobby to answer your questions related to admissions, registration, and financial aid. The Virtual Lobby is currently open Monday from 2 to 6 p.m. and Tuesday through Friday from noon to 4 p.m.; after entering the lobby a staff member will direct you to the department best suited to assist you.

I wish you good health and success in your studies.

Dr. Linda Kaminski
President, Yakima Valley College

November 23, 2020

YVC Students, Faculty, and Staff:

As we enter into the holiday season and COVID-19 cases continue to rise in Washington, it remains important for each one of us to care for the safety of the Yakima Valley College community. The Washington Department of Health has created a Safe Gatherings webpage that offers helpful ideas on ways to celebrate safely and how to have conversations with friends and family about social events during the holiday season.

The holiday season also can be a stressful time of year, and even more so during this pandemic. If you are feeling sad, lonely or anxious, I encourage you to call the Washington Listens line at 833.681.0211 for support and resources.

Thank you for being so resilient and caring during these disruptive times. I wish you and your loved ones a happy and healthy holiday season.

Sincerely yours,

Dr. Linda Kaminski
President, Yakima Valley College

October 9, 2020

YVC Students, Faculty, and Staff:

Based on Yakima County’s current status in Phase 1.5 of the Governor’s Safe Start Washington COVID Reopening Plan, we will continue to offer most of our classes virtually, with the current exceptions for some in-person labs in specific programs, throughout the Winter Quarter. I know that you are anxious to return to in-person instruction and activities. We all share in your frustration with the current situation. However, our main priority continues to be promoting the health and safety of our students and employees, as well as their families.

We will also continue to maintain closed campuses with no in-person events and all services provided virtually. Making this decision now will enable our entire college community to be adequately prepared for the start of the Winter Quarter. Decisions for Spring Quarter operations will be made at a future date.

Thank you all for your patience, persistence, and extraordinary efforts to continue to pursue your educational goals during these challenging times. I encourage you to regularly visit our online services page to explore and take advantage of the many services available to you. Stay well.

Sincerely yours,

Dr. Linda Kaminski
President, Yakima Valley College

July 1, 2020

YVC Students, Faculty, and Staff:

In response to the NWAC’s recent announcement of its Return to Play Guidelines for Fall Sports, Yakima Valley College has examined the effect of the NWAC guidelines on the college’s planned programming and the impact of the NWAC guidelines on YVC’s students, staff, and faculty as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

After specifically considering the continued status of Yakima County in Phase One of Washington State’s Phased Approach to the COVID-19 pandemic as well as other possible outcomes and impacts, the college has decided it is most appropriate to not offer any fall quarter sports programming.

This includes playing, training, and practice components for the Volleyball and Women’s Soccer seasons as well as the training and practice components for Men’s and Women’s Basketball, Baseball, and Softball. If Yakima County reaches Phase Three during the winter or spring quarters and there are other competing colleges that similarly delayed their fall sports, there is a possibility for volleyball and soccer competition in the winter or spring quarters.

YVC appreciates each student-athlete who chose to compete for us this fall and will honor any athletic aid promised to them should they choose to enroll at YVC for fall quarter online learning. Should a student-athlete decide that another situation will allow them to be successful elsewhere, YVC stands ready to assist in that transition.

Yakima Valley College will consider the status of subsequent 2020-21 sport seasons for winter and spring at an appropriate time in the future and in accordance with the most current version of NWAC protocols for return.

YVC has always placed and will continue to place, a premium on the health and safety of its student‐athletes, coaches, athletic staff, support members, and fans in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sincerely yours,

Dr. Linda Kaminski
President, Yakima Valley College

May 11, 2020

YVC Students, Faculty, and Staff:

As the governor pursues a phased approach to re-opening Washington’s economy, community colleges are now allowed to conduct some very limited in-person instructional activities. These activities are only possible for a small group of Workforce Education (WED) programs.

This change is only affecting a small number of YVC students, who are being contacted directly by their instructors and program leaders. Some of these students have returned to campus today, following very restrictive safety and social distancing guidelines. Each of the WED programs affected has created an approved set of safety protocols, including COVID-19 specific training.

These limited in-person interactions are designed to help WED students graduate on time. Our college is making every effort to ensure this required instruction takes place as safely as possible.

It is vital, as we stressed in the early days of this public health threat, that anyone who feels they are sick, or may become sick, stays away from YVC’s campuses. We are maintaining a host of COVID-19 related resources on our webpage: yvcc.edu/coronavirus

YVC remains committed to offering mostly online instruction at least through the conclusion of the upcoming Fall Quarter.

Sincerely yours,
Dr. Linda Kaminski
President, Yakima Valley College

May 1, 2020

YVC Students, Faculty, and Staff:

I am writing to you to share our plan for instruction in the Summer and Fall Quarters, and to provide a brief update on Advising Day.

As we continue to see the spread of COVID-19 in our community, and as Yakima County now is seeing the highest rate of infection, per capita, in the state, we have made the difficult decision to extend online learning through the entirety of Summer and Fall Quarters. We recognize this may come as a disappointment to some of you who wish to return to our classrooms as soon as possible. By making this decision now, we allow time for our faculty and staff to prepare properly for instruction in the months ahead.

We are hopeful that the governor will soon announce that, after May 4, some of our WED programs, that require limited hands-on activities due to their professional accreditation requirements, will be able to provide that instruction (beginning May 5 and continuing forward) using social distancing and appropriate protective equipment (PPE). While this is our hope, we need to hear directly from our governor that restrictions have been lifted. We are also working to acquire the appropriate personal protective equipment that the governor will require.

Please note: This decision affects instruction only. Decisions have not been made regarding the availability of on-campus resources, athletics, and many other issues. We ask for your continued patience. We will keep you informed as more information becomes available.

Additionally, we are adjusting Spring Advising Day, which had previously been scheduled for May 5. YVC is hosting mandatory advising via telephone and email. Your advisor will call or e-mail you sometime between May 4 and May 13.

If your advisor has to leave you a voicemail or email, respond promptly. If you do not hear from your advisor by the end of the day May 13 and are unsure who your advisor is, contact the Counseling & Advising Center by phone at 509.574.4956, or by email at counseling@yvcc.edu.

If you have more than 30 college-level credits (100 level and above), advising is not mandatory. You may still have questions and your pathway advisor is available. Your advisor’s name and contact information are available in the Student Portal.

These are very challenging times and we are operating in a new and unfamiliar environment where the rules change very quickly.  Thank you for your patience, flexibility, and continued dedication to education, while continuing to prioritize the health and safety of our community.

Sincerely yours,
Dr. Linda Kaminski
President, Yakima Valley College

April 28, 2020

YVC Students, Faculty, and Staff:

I am writing to you to share our plan for instruction in the Summer and Fall Quarters, and to provide a brief update on Advising Day.

As we continue to see the spread of COVID-19 in our community, and as Yakima County now is seeing the highest rate of infection, per capita, in the state, we have made the difficult decision to extend online learning through the entirety of Summer and Fall Quarters. We recognize this may come as a disappointment to some of you who wish to return to our classrooms as soon as possible. By making this decision now, we allow time for our faculty and staff to prepare properly for instruction in the months ahead.

We are hopeful that the governor will soon announce that, after May 4, some of our WED programs, that require limited hands-on activities due to their professional accreditation requirements, will be able to provide that instruction (beginning May 5 and continuing forward) using social distancing and appropriate protective equipment (PPE). While this is our hope, we need to hear directly from our governor that restrictions have been lifted. We are also working to acquire the appropriate personal protective equipment that the governor will require.

Please note: This decision affects instruction only. Decisions have not been made regarding the availability of on-campus resources, athletics, and many other issues. We ask for your continued patience. We will keep you informed as more information becomes available.

Additionally, we are adjusting Spring Advising Day, which had previously been scheduled for May 5. YVC is hosting mandatory advising via telephone and email. Your advisor will call or e-mail you sometime between May 4 and May 13.

If your advisor has to leave you a voicemail or email, respond promptly. If you do not hear from your advisor by the end of the day May 13 and are unsure who your advisor is, contact the Counseling & Advising Center by phone at 509.574.4956, or by email at counseling@yvcc.edu.

If you have more than 30 college-level credits (100 level and above), advising is not mandatory. You may still have questions and your pathway advisor is available. Your advisor’s name and contact information are available in the Student Portal.

These are very challenging times and we are operating in a new and unfamiliar environment where the rules change very quickly.  Thank you for your patience, flexibility, and continued dedication to education, while continuing to prioritize the health and safety of our community.

Sincerely yours,
Dr. Linda Kaminski
President, Yakima Valley College

YVC Students, Faculty and Staff:

Yakima Valley College, in the interest of the health and safety of our graduates and their families, has decided to cancel the commencement ceremony scheduled for June 19 in the Yakima Valley SunDome. This was a difficult decision, and we regret we will not have the chance to gather together to celebrate this year.

The college is instead creating a way for graduates to safely enjoy their accomplishments at home with their families. “A Celebration of Our Graduates” will be a unique and memorable event, a crowd-sourced, live-streamed video celebration 7 p.m. Friday, June 19. All expected graduates will be given the chance to have their moment in the spotlight . . . by submitting brief (six-second) video clips, shot “selfie-style,” celebrating their accomplishments and giving thanks to those who helped them succeed.

The videos will be edited together and unveiled live on the college’s YouTube channel and Facebook page, on the very same night our commencement was originally planned.

Earlier today I emailed expected graduates, sharing more details of the video submission process. We are encouraging students to be innovative in creating their videos. Submissions will be accepted between May 1-21, 2020, with more details to come  on the commencement page. For further information, please contact Community Relations at communityrelations@yvcc.edu.

Thank you all for your continued contributions to the YVC community.

Sincerely yours,
Dr. Linda Kaminski
President, Yakima Valley College

YVC Students, Faculty and Staff:

All campuses and learning centers of Yakima Valley College will remain closed to the public through May 4, in observance of the governor’s extension of the “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order.

Spring Quarter will still begin April 6, with online-only instruction. Classes will remain online-only for the entirety of Spring Quarter. Some limited hands-on learning, for a small number of select programs, may resume once the governor’s order is lifted.

YVC intends to resume availability of limited in-person on-campus resources once the governor’s order is lifted, with strict adherence to social distancing guidelines.

As access to technology is essential to student success, we will continue with our planned distribution of laptops on our YVC and Grandview Campuses on April 6 and 7. Reservations may be required. For more information on this distribution.

Students have until April 10 to add classes, with instructor permission. Our Spring Quarter tuition due date has been extended to April 15. YVC expects significant financial support from the recently passed CARES Act. This money is expected to help enrolled students who face financial hardships related to the current public health crisis.

I encourage all students to continue on their educational path. Your college is here to ensure every student can succeed.

Sincerely yours,
Dr. Linda Kaminski
President, Yakima Valley College

Letter from College President

Recent public comments by the governor indicate he intends to soon extend his “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order, which is currently in place through April 6, and has mandated the current closure of our campuses to the public.

As we await this expected action from the governor, I’m writing you to announce a change in our operations for Spring Quarter.

In the interest of the health and safety of our students, faculty and staff, Yakima Valley College has decided to continue mostly online instruction through the end of Spring Quarter. Previously, we had intended to resume normal operations during Spring Quarter, if allowed. As COVID-19 has advanced in our community, it has become clear full classroom operations won’t happen during Spring Quarter.

This was a difficult decision. I know that for students who would prefer to learn in a classroom, this is not an ideal solution.

To arrive at this decision, we consulted with the Yakima Health District and received input from over 1,000 students, the majority of whom (64%) were in favor of continuing our online instruction through the end of Spring Quarter.

The vast majority of our students will not visit a classroom this quarter, but some of our classes require hands-on activities. These will continue to be offered using social distancing recommendations, whenever the governor’s “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order is lifted. These on-campus activities will require college administration approval. These exceptions will not be made for Sciences and Performing Arts classwork. All instruction in the Sciences and Performing Arts, including hands-on lab components, will be offered online.

We will offer limited, but vital resources to students on our campuses once the governor’s order is lifted. These resources will include access to computer terminals for students, utilizing social distancing (staying six feet away from other people).

The college will continue to offer a wealth of online student support services, including one-on-one tutoring, advising, and counseling.

YVC has purchased a limited number of laptops, which will be made available to students on a first-come, first-serve basis starting April 6. Students can expect an invitation via email and student online portal from Technology Services today, announcing the process for reserving one of these laptops. Students who successfully reserve a laptop will receive these computers safely, via a drive-through delivery method on YVC’s Yakima Campus, and a controlled, one-at-a-time process on YVC’s Grandview Campus.

Students, please know your college is committed to doing all we can to help you throughout Spring Quarter. Every student can succeed. Please remember our tuition deadline has been extended to April 6. With the passage of the CARES Act, we are confident there will be unprecedented financial support to help our current students continue in their educational path in the months ahead.

Many of our faculty are eager to return to their offices to better serve students in remote learning. Employees cannot visit campus until the “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order is lifted, unless they receive approval to visit campus from one of YVC’s Vice Presidents. I appreciate the flexibility and commitment to students our faculty are showing in adapting so many of their lesson plans for online delivery, now through the end of Spring Quarter.

Finally, I have an announcement regarding the reporting of COVID-19 cases. YVC has received new guidance from the Yakima Health District. Moving forward, the college will not publicly announce new positive or suspected positive cases among students, faculty, and staff. Instead, we will communicate directly with anyone we believe may have been in close contact with the affected individual. This guidance is based on the health district’s recognition it has been more than 14 days since large numbers of people have been on YVC’s campuses, and the health district’s belief COVID-19 is now widespread in Yakima County.

We continue to encourage anyone with information regarding the development of symptoms or potential exposure to the virus to report their concerns to HR, at 509.574.4670, or yvcchr@yvcc.edu.

Sincerely yours,
Dr. Linda Kaminski
President, Yakima Valley College

Letter from College President

An instructor at the Yakima Campus of Yakima Valley College has recently informed the college of a suspected case of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19).

The instructor reports “documented exposure” connected to an individual who has tested positive in Kittitas County. The instructor reports first experiencing symptoms on March 16th, and visiting a local hospital ER on March 23rd. The instructor reports they were told they were likely positive, but no test was ordered. The instructor was released from the hospital that day, and remains isolated.

Despite the absence of a positive test, we have decided to share this information out of an abundance of caution, in the interest of public health and safety. The instructor last visited YVC’s Yakima Campus on March 13th.

All students who attended class with this instructor, or who attended class in the classrooms in which this instructor worked, have already been notified by email.

YVC’s campuses are already closed to the public, and are scheduled to remain closed to the public through April 6th. The buildings in which the instructor worked are being deep-cleaned, as we continue to prioritize health and safety.

Our coronavirus webpage will be updated daily to keep you informed of any future suspected or confirmed cases.

We will continue to monitor the situation closely and will continue to act in accordance with the latest and best information provided by health officials.

Symptoms of COVID-19 may include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. YVC students or employees who know they have had exposure to coronavirus or are feeling any symptoms are encouraged to self-isolate, contact the college’s Human Resource Services Office at 509.574.4670 or yvcchr@yvcc.edu, and contact a health care provider by phone or email for further guidance.

Sincerely yours,
Dr. Linda Kaminski
President, Yakima Valley College

Letter from College President

In response to the governor’s “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order, all campuses and learning centers of Yakima Valley College will be closed to the public, starting tomorrow, March 25, and lasting through Monday, April 6.

While the vast majority of our employees will not be on campus during this time, our staff will be hard at work serving students. There is a wealth of resources available at www.yvcc.edu, and we have a full list of telephone numbers available to students listed below.

Spring Quarter will still begin April 6, with online-only interactions on that day. YVC intends to resume availability of limited in-person resources and limited in-person instruction on April 7.  Any on-campus interaction will be conducted with strict adherence to social distancing guidelines. Of course, these dates are subject to change, and YVC will continue to follow the governor’s directives when making operational decisions.

Please continue to prioritize health and safety in these difficult times. Rest assured your college is here to serve you as we prepare for Spring Quarter.

Sincerely yours,
Dr. Linda Kaminski
President, Yakima Valley College

Letter from College President

Tonight, Governor Jay Inslee issued a “stay home, stay healthy” order, effective Wednesday and remaining in effect until further notice, to slow the spread of COVID-19 in our state.

Students, please know that Yakima Valley College will continue to educate and serve you this Spring Quarter. In the interest of safety, YVC faculty and staff continue to prepare to function as a mostly online institution with online classes and services and very limited on-campus interactions.

To help students progress on their academic paths, we have decided to move back our tuition due date. Tuition for Spring Quarter will now be due Monday, April 6. Spring Quarter will begin April 6th. We are currently evaluating whether some “hands-on” programs may still be required to begin March 31.

For students who require access to computers and Wi-Fi in order to participate in online courses, a limited number of computers will be made available.  To comply with the Governor’s order, we encourage students to refrain from coming to campus and instead to contact college services online (at yvcc.edu) or through the following phone numbers.

·         Technology Services Help for Students: 509.574.4717

·         Enrollment Services Help for Students: 509.574.4700

·         Financial Aid Services Help for Students: 509.574.6855

·         Disability Services Help for Students: 509.574.4960

·         Bookstore Help for Students: 509.574.4625

·         General Information Aassistance: 509.574.4600  (Yakima Campus); 509.882.7000 (Grandview Campus)

These phone numbers should be available to you during normal business hours (M-F, 8 am – 5 pm) during Spring Break and throughout the upcoming Spring Quarter.

I know there are many questions from faculty and staff regarding tonight’s announcement from the governor. YVC faculty and staff should expect further communication from Executive Director of Human Resource Services, Steven Sloniker, regarding workplace impacts.

Our first priority is to keep everyone safe.  As YVC transitions to mostly online instruction and services, our faculty and staff are committed to helping students succeed. Please take a moment to view the inspiring video released this morning on social media:

“YVC – We Are All In This Together”

Thank you for your continued vigilance against COVID-19, and for your steadfast commitment to your education.

Sincerely yours,
Dr. Linda Kaminski
President, Yakima Valley College

Letter from College President

Tomorrow is the last day of an extraordinary Finals Week, and I wish to thank all of you for your hard work. Because of you, Yakima Valley College is delivering a successful close to Winter Quarter. As we move forward, I have important information to share with you.

YVC is adjusting its Spring Quarter academic calendar. Spring Quarter will now start a week late, with classes beginning Monday, April 6th. There are exceptions. A few programs must start on time in order to complete their specific course requirements.

Here is the list of all programs that will start on time, as previously scheduled:

  •  Automotive
  • Dental Hygiene
  • Early Childhood Education
  • Medical Assisting
  • Nursing
  • Pharmacy Technology
  • Phlebotomy
  • Radiologic Science
  • Veterinary Technology

YVC will conclude Spring Quarter as scheduled, with Spring Final Exams conducted June 8-10.

There have been many questions regarding student services. We have compiled a full list of our services, including hours of operation. Many services will be available by appointment only. For the list of services, and more information, please visit yvcc.edu/services/coronavirus-services/

Spring Break is almost upon us. I implore all of us to prioritize health and safety during this time, for ourselves and for the greater community. A list of trusted health resources is available at www.yvcc.edu/coronavirus/

Finally, let me re-affirm: Yakima Valley College is committed to putting students first. I look forward to sharing with you, in the days ahead, YVC’s plan to help all students succeed this Spring Quarter. We understand many face challenges in accessing technology at home. We are working diligently to ensure every student who needs help, gets help.

Sincerely yours,
Dr. Linda Kaminski
President, Yakima Valley College

Monday, March 16, 2020 Update

Letter from College President

Thank you to the many members of our campus community who have dedicated extraordinary time and energy over the past three days preparing for Finals Week. To students who are taking exams, I wish you the best of luck and know you will do well.

As expected, there have been many questions about our campuses’ limited operations for Finals Week. Here is a brief video, which gives an overview of what you can expect in the days ahead:

“Yakima Valley College – Moving Forward” 

As for student services, please know that essential student services are available at Yakima Valley College’s campuses, including admission, registration, and financial aid. For students with a direct academic need, some other in-person resources are also available on campus, with restrictions. These services include the library and bookstore, which will enforce limits on the number of students who can access them at any given time. Campus-wide, we are enforcing the principles of social distancing, keeping individuals six feet apart, with enhanced cleaning protocols in place.

I recognize there are challenges and inconveniences for all of us as we comply with the governor’s directive. Thank you for your flexibility, and your commitment to our campus community.

Sincerely yours,
Dr. Linda Kaminski
President, Yakima Valley College

Letter from College President

Today, in the interest of public health, the Governor ordered all colleges, including YVC, to move to online instruction and restrict on-campus activity starting next week.

Yakima Valley College will be in full compliance with the Governor’s directive, transitioning courses and exams to an online format and offering reduced services starting Monday March 16th, and lasting through April 24th.

Throughout this period, Yakima Valley College will continue to educate and serve our students.

Next week we have three days of final exams before students go on spring break. Most final exams will be available online. We will work with students to remove any barriers to online access. Some courses, such as Nursing, may require hands-on exams that can only be administered in person. Those exams will be offered on-campus, but following the Governor’s directive to provide a safe distance between individuals. Students can expect further communication from faculty regarding the format of their finals.

Essential student support services will be available enabling students to register for Spring Quarter classes.

We hope these temporary changes will help slow the spread of this current public health threat.

Sincerely yours,
Dr. Linda Kaminski
President, Yakima Valley College

Letter from College President

Today I have a brief update to share with you.

Last night, multiple news outlets reported the Yakima Health District has confirmed two cases of 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Yakima County, with both patients currently in isolation. The health district expects our area will see an increase in positive tests in the near future.

As of today, (Thursday, March 12) Yakima Valley College’s campuses and learning centers remain open and operating as normal, with enhanced cleaning protocols in place, and extensive preparation underway in expectation of further local spread of the virus.

We have chosen to cancel some upcoming campus events, including the “Know Your Roots” choir concert that had been scheduled for this Friday and Saturday. More cancellations may come in the near future. Please refer to our Event Calendar at for up-to-date information on event cancellations.

As you know, next week is Finals Week, and the following week brings us to Spring Break. As a college, we are engaged in extensive discussion and planning regarding Spring Quarter. I look forward to sharing, in the very near future, an announcement regarding our plan to best serve students in Spring Quarter.

Meanwhile, please remain mindful of the following:

It is imperative all persons connected to Yakima Valley College stay home at the first sign of symptoms, including a fever, cough, or shortness of breath.

We encourage anyone with information regarding the development of symptoms or potential exposure to the virus to stay home and report their concerns to HR, at 509.574.4670, or yvcchr@yvcc.edu.

We continue to offer resources for you on the YVC website, including daily updates from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, at the following link: www.yvcc.edu/coronavirus/

For your health, and the health of others, please continue to follow the same precautions used to limit the spread of flu and the common cold:

  • Wash hands frequently with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds. Use hand sanitizer if soap is not available.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid contact with people who are sick.
  • Please stay home if you become sick.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

Thank you for your continued attention. We will continue to update you as more information comes available.

Sincerely yours,
Dr. Linda Kaminski
President, Yakima Valley College

Letter from College President

March 9, 2020

Yakima Valley College is monitoring the spread of 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). We are working directly with local public health officials in an effort to keep our community safe and healthy.

As of today (Monday, March 9) the Yakima County Health District is indicating there are no confirmed cases in Yakima County; however, health officials are investigating concerns over potential exposure at the Yakima Square & Dance Center, at 207 E. Charron Road, in Moxee, between February 22 and March 7. In Kittitas County, health officials have confirmed a positive test for a 67-year-old woman, and declared a state of emergency in response to increased testing.

Our campuses and learning centers remain open and operating as normal, with enhanced cleaning protocols in place, and extensive preparation underway in expectation of local spread of the virus.

As part of our COVID-19 preparation, YVC’s instructional team is enhancing its ability to manage coursework online. We are evaluating YVC-related travel and events, and have already cancelled some community-sponsored events in the interest of public health. Our Office of Human Resource Services (HR) is tracking illness-related absences and investigating any reports of coronavirus-related concerns.

It is imperative all persons connected to Yakima Valley College stay home at the first sign of symptoms, including a fever, cough, or shortness of breath.

We encourage anyone with information regarding the development of symptoms or potential exposure to the virus to stay home and report their concerns to HR, at 509.574.4670, or yvcchr@yvcc.edu.

We continue to offer resources for you on this YVC website, including daily updates from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control.

For your health, and the health of others, please continue to follow the same precautions used to limit the spread of flu and the common cold:

  • Wash hands frequently with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds. Use hand sanitizer if soap is not available.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid contact with people who are sick.
  • Please stay home if you become sick.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

Thank you for your continued attention. We will continue to update you as more information comes available.

Sincerely yours,
Dr. Linda Kaminski
President, Yakima Valley College

Letter from College President

Yakima Valley College is monitoring the spread of 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) and following the lead of public health officials in an effort to keep our community safe and healthy. Our knowledge of COVID-19 is still rapidly evolving. As of today (Tuesday, March 3) the Yakima County Health District confirms there are no suspected cases of the virus in Yakima County.

Now more than ever, it is important for you to follow the same precautions used to limit the spread of flu and the common cold:

  • Wash hands frequently with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds. Use hand sanitizer if soap is not available.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid contact with people who are sick.
  • Stay home if you become sick.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces

If you have immediate questions or concerns about COVID-19, please contact the Washington Department of Health’s newly established Call Center: 1.800.525.0127 (then press #) .

Meanwhile, we have collected more informational resources for you on this YVC webpage, including daily updates from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control.

I wish to discourage any stigma related to this virus outbreak. Elsewhere, we have seen reports of coronavirus fear resulting in incidents of bias and harassment. YVC will not condone harassment against individuals or groups. If you witness or experience any bias or harassment please report it to our Campus Safety Office at 509-574-4610. Additionally, YVC students who need more personal support during this time are encouraged to seek counseling services at our  Counseling & Advising Center.

Our campuses and learning centers remain open and operating as normal. Our custodial staff has implemented an enhanced cleaning protocol, with particular emphasis on commonly touched surfaces. Following practices first implemented in the H1N1 outbreak in 2009, YVC is now gathering a committee with representation from all sectors of our campus community to help guide our response as the situation evolves.

We thank you for your attention to this developing public health issue. We will continue to update you as more information comes available.

Sincerely yours,
Dr. Linda Kaminski
President, Yakima Valley College

Combatting Stigma

YVC will not condone harassment against individuals or groups. If you witness or experience any bias or harassment please report it to our Campus Safety Office at 509-574-4610. Additionally, YVC students who need more personal support during this time are encouraged to seek counseling services at our Counseling & Advising CenterCoronavirus Stigma Fact Sheet

CDC Website Information Below: