Dear Extension Family,
The current update that we have to share is that no in-person events may be held before June 1. We will notify you of any changes as they are provided to us.
We are now on day 26 of the Modified Operating Procedure for Extension. I want to thank each of you as we learn to navigate these uncharted waters. The way each county office was able to transition to working remotely was amazing. All the districts and program teams learned how to adapt to meeting remotely and delivering programs online in order to continue addressing the needs of our stakeholders. Our administrative assistants were also able to adjust the office operations to function remotely. It takes a team to address our current situation. I am simply amazed at how all of you have adapted.
During this “New Normal for Extension”, I encourage you to take advantage of any downtime you may have to build on your skillsets and gain knowledge. Clemson University Human Resources offers free online professional development opportunities through their Optional Online Learning Program, and consider asking your PTD or DED about online resources that can help you improve implementation and evaluation of programmatic activities. This is also an excellent time to develop publications for your stakeholders through Land-Grant Press and, additionally, to participate as a reviewer. We have had a sharp increase in submittals over the past two weeks.
When the time comes that we can open our offices and serve the public in person, this will not be like a light switch one flips on – as in you suddenly start back to a normal work routine as when you left. It will be a gradual reintroduction. Once the pandemic levels off, there will be at least a three to four week “cooling down” period wherein executive orders will be strategically relaxed. As soon as we know these dates, we will communicate a clear plan as to how we will move forward. However, “social distancing” will still be practiced at every office and event.
As has been constantly emphasized, this is a fluid situation that changes daily. Fortunately, it does appear that social distancing is working, and it will have to become an accepted way to engage publicly for quite some time. Your leadership team is working tirelessly to develop policies and provide guidance that will ensure the safe implementation of a “return to office” plan. Our highest priority is everyone’s safety.
I want to express to you again how important it is that you take care of yourself and your family. Be sure that you take all precautions to stay safe.
