Dear Californian,

I am reaching out to our California community college students with my warmest wishes for your health and wellness during these difficult times.

Our 115 colleges are working tirelessly to help you and your families get through this crisis, and they will play a critical role in our state’s recovery. With all of us working together and following public health directives, we can help keep Californians healthy.

Let there be no doubt, the critical educational mission of California’s community colleges continues. Our colleges are converting in-person courses to online to provide you with the instruction you need to improve your lives and the lives of your families.

I want to thank you for all you are doing to support each other and to adjust to this new normal of online learning. We are focused on making it as easy as possible for you to stay enrolled and continue your education.

I realize that for many the switch to online learning is not an easy one. Switching to an online environment can seem confusing or overwhelming. Thankfully, your community colleges have a series of interactive videos that can help prepare you for an online environment. You can watch them at your own pace, revisit them when needed, and be ready to learn online.

Your local college is reaching out with details about changes at each local institution. In addition, my office has produced a COVID-19 web page with answers to questions frequently asked by students. Visit the “students” section of this web page for guidance about financial aid, tips for online learning, ways to access broadband, and more.

While we are in a unique situation, your success is our top priority. I know that in addition to your educational goals, many of you are performing essential jobs that are helping to keep our state running during this crisis. Thank you!

This is a challenging situation, and we are asking everyone to stay calm and follow public health guidance to maintain the safety of yourself and your family. Be well.

Sincerely,
Eloy Ortiz Oakley