We are now entering day 90 of the COVID-19 Modified Operating Procedure for Extension, and we are three weeks into our Extension Return to Work Framework Plan. I would have thought that we would have been further along in our reentry procedure. However, it seems that COVID-19 cases are continuing to rise, and rapidly so, in our state. As indicated by our color-coded map of county reentry statuses, we have not had many offices enter into Phase 1 and, fewer have entered into Phase 2. We will not initiate Phase III until after July 4. Our plan is designed to be flexible in order to adapt to the fluidity of the ongoing situation. Dr. Burns meets with Clemson University’s EOC on a daily basis to obtain updates that will determine the ongoing process for reopening offices. I realize this situation is very frustrating, but I will reiterate that ‘Slow is Fast.’ I do not want to open offices just to have to close them down again shortly after. We will stay the course.
We have begun our employee evaluation process. I hope that everyone will take this time to reflect upon their work and accomplishments, as well as give consideration to how you might be able to “Make the Best Better.” I can promise you the District Directors and the Program Team Directors are working together to ensure that this year’s evaluation process is even more thorough than in past years. We are already working with Human Resources on the new EPMS procedure for 2020-21, and Mr. Dickert was our representative on their EPMS committee. For the upcoming planning stage, we hope to introduce a new system that is more user-friendly and applicable to Extension’s needs. Human Resources will host a calibration program for our District Directors and Program Team Directors in late summer to ensure that we implement the new system equitably across Extension.
Dr. Julie Northcutt and her team have been working overtime on the Extension Associate and Extension Specialist rankings and promotion ladder. We plan to have this process complete by July 1. Dr. Northcutt has spent countless hours going through CVs and resumes and meeting with HR and committee members to ensure this process is done fairly. I want to give Dr. Northcutt a shout-out for her dedication and attention to detail during this process. She has completed a task that has been in play for thirty years.
In the upcoming weeks, you will hear more about Extension’s involvement in COVID-19 testing. Dr. Michelle Parisi is working with the College of Behavioral, Health and Social Sciences and MUSC to develop a statewide COVID-19 testing program. This will be a very complex and comprehensive program. Dr. Parisi will be working directly with our District Directors to engage the community in this process. I want to ask each and every one of you to support this program.
Until proven treatments and a vaccine are identified, it is imperative to understand the spread of this virus through increased testing. I will be sending out more information on this program soon. As always, please continue to take good care of yourselves and your families, and thank you for what you do for Clemson Extension.
