To be clear, the State University System’s directive to universities to immediately convert to online instruction does not include state colleges. Per the Florida Commissioner of Education, the COVID-19 risk to students and employees at our State Colleges and K-12 institutions remains low. Upon the recommendation of the Florida Department of Education, Miami Dade College and the other 27 state colleges remain open. We have taken several precautions which we have communicated to the college community via email, social media and on our dedicated website, www.mdc.edu/coronavirus. In the event the status of MDC classes and operations changes, we will immediately communicate it to employees and students, and will provide instructions for the continuation of the spring semester through alternative instructional methods, including online. We appreciate the patience and understanding of all students and employees. Their safety remains our top priority.